Sometimes families go through difficult times and they might need extra support from friends and family. A social worker may suggest you have a Family Group Conference. It’s a time where friends and family can get together and talk about how they can help look after you.

How can you have your say?

At the meeting it is important that you get to say what you would like to happen and who you would like to help look after you.

If you wanted support at the meeting to pass on your wishes and feelings then an advocate can help you. We could help you write down what you want to say, take pictures or make a video with you – whatever way you feel happy in passing on your message to your friends, family and social worker.

Who else could help you?

You may decide to take a friend with you or a member of your family who is able to help you say what you want. It’s up to you to decide who you would feel most comfortable with.

After the meeting…

Your family and friends will come up with a plan that they will give to the social worker. In the plan they would have written down ways they can help look after you in the best way possible. Your wishes and feelings will be a part of this plan.