The Family Conference (FC) method in some states is referred to as Family Group Conference, Familien Auffstellung, etc. It is a simple tool that even a layman can use in his work. It is based only on one fundamental idea: “Family is an expert in his life”. FC tries to activate and utilize primarily family resources; however, in areas where the family does not have the capacity, knowledge or resources that involve secondary professionals who continue to work with the family are employed. The main reason for preparing and carrying out FC is in response to a change in the family situation, which can have negative consequences, such as school failure, absence of attendance, change of behaviour or various problems for the child.
My oral presentation will offer a set of situations in which the family and a particular young person can be supported in their choice of study or profession. The FC coordinator ensures that the wider family network has full awareness of the process and that the family agrees on a procedure for the collaboration of professionals with family members for the next half-year. The professionals’ expertise is sought after when the family itself cannot help with a particular issue. The advantage is the possibility of creating a “safety net”, setting the foundation for cooperation even if a member of the family or the young person himself/herself will fail.
Throughout the course of preparation of the FC and during the meeting, the family has time to discuss the joint plan in their mother tongue and communicate with experts through a selected family member or interpreter.
This method of working with the family also produces good results when working with migrants, national minorities and socially excluded people.
