Education in Hampshire

Welcome to the Family Group Conference Home Page

What is a Family Group Conference?

Initially developed out of Maori community traditions of resolving family problems in New Zealand, FGC's work well in a wide variety of cultural contexts.

An FGC is a model for decision-making about children which involves the wider family network, in partnership with and supported by statutory agencies. The conferences are convened by an independent co-ordinator, who arranges a meeting of extended family and professionals in order to consider concerns and make plans to resolve the child's problems and meet their needs. The process is flexibly applied to each family's situation.

Following a referral

Preparation - the co-ordinator identifies and involves as wide a family network as possible and facilitates their attendance at the FGC.

Information - professionals give information, which is clarified by the family.

Private family time - for the family to discuss and come up with a plan on their own.

Plan and agreement - is recorded and actioned.

Implementation/monitoring - needs to be agreed and ensured.

Key elements of a FGC

FGC's do differ significantly from other types of planning meetings.

The essentials are:

·	a wider and inclusive concept of family which, as well as children, may include relatives at a distance and close family friends
·	the child or young person is helped to participate
·	an independent co-ordinator
·	private time and decision-making by the families
·	professionals providing consultation and clear, jargon free, advice about resources, not making decisions
·	flexibility about the setting and timing of FGC's. Neutral venues are offered, as are refreshments.

Support and respect for the family's plan and the implementation of it, unless the plan is unlawful or leaves a child at risk of significant harm.

Use of FGC's in education

Family Group Conferences may be convened to make decisions and plans for children or young people whose education is being put at risk by difficulties they are experiencing e.g.

·	Non-school attendance
·	bullying
·	behaviour leading to problems or threat of exclusion - an FGC should always be considered and offered to families where difficulties may be leading to exclusions.

FGC's have used by education since 1998/99 and are currently available across the county for pupils in school years 1-8 inclusive, and older young people who would like to take part.

Information and training and to make referrals

Please contact Liz Holton, FGC Manager. Free training courses are available on FGC's to professionals from all agencies within the County.

FGC Video

A ten minute video outlines family group conference from the family and young person's angle. If you would like to see a copy please contact elaine.edwards@hants.gov.uk or telephone 01962 876356

For more information	Liz Holton
please contact:	Family Group Conference Manager
	Winchester Local Education Office
	Clarendon House
	Romsey Road
	Winchester
	SO22 5PW
	Tel: 01962 876356
	E-mail: liz.holton@hants.gov.uk