Welcome to Relative Strength

Striving for Independence

After working within the public sector, in particular Children's Services for two decades, I found myself at an intersection in my life. The journey ahead was unclear. However I was certain about a number of things. Firstly, that I wanted to continue offering the services I had done so for the past 20 years, as I am passionate about the good they do for children and their families. Secondly, that I wanted to achieve independence in doing so.

The provision I am most passionate about is Family Group Conferencing (FGC). This provides children and their families with the opportunity to come together to explore difficulties they are facing, and draw on their collective strengths and resources to find a solution. They are hugely empowering for the family, and achieve great outcomes. When we talk about family, we do not just focus on blood relations, but also friends, neighbours, people within their community. Really anyone who could offer help and support. As an FGC coordinator our aim has always been to be independent and neutral. However, I question how truly independent one can be when we are employed by the decision makers?

So Why is Independence Important?

Well, because the FGC process is about families choosing their own direction, and being key members in decision making that will affect them. If, as coordinators we were to guide, or advise the family, then their resulting plan would not be their plan due to the fact that we have influenced it in some way. It is important that the family choose their own path, as they are then far more likely to follow that path, which will hopefully lead them to a better place. Research shows that people are more likely to follow their own plan, than those imposed on them.

So What is our Role as Coordinators?

Put simply - To ask the right question at the right time, in order for the individuals involved to find their own answers. We are independent and neutral, and have no agenda other than to aid the family's preparation for the FGC.

My hope is that by stepping away from being within Local Authorities control we can strive to be more independent, and that the families will more easily recognise our independence, which will hopefully encourage engagement, and improve outcomes for them.

However, can we ever be truly independent? My hope is that as Relative Strength, we will be a step closer.

Jain

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