What is a Family Group Conference?
A Family Group Conference (FGC) is a decision-making meeting that brings together you, your family, and your support network to help solve problems together.
It gives families the opportunity to talk openly about challenges, agree on solutions, and create a practical plan that supports children and young people.
FGCs are built on the belief that families know their own situation best and are often best placed to make decisions about the care and wellbeing of their children.
Taking part in a Family Group Conference is voluntary, meaning it is always your choice whether to be involved.
Why have a Family Group Conference?
Family Group Conferences are based on the belief that families understand their own circumstances and can make strong, effective plans for their children. The approach is about supporting families to make their own decisions, not directing them.
We believe that:
- Families understand their own circumstances best
- Families can make strong, effective plans for their children
- Support should empower families, not direct them
A Family Group Conference provides a safe and supportive space for families to come together, share concerns, and agree on a way forward that creates positive change.
What can a Family Group Conference help with?
An FGC can support families in a wide range of situations, including:
- Child protection concerns
- Worries about neglect
- Planning care for children with disabilities
- Supporting children when a parent is seriously ill
- Supporting parents with mental or physical health needs
- Helping family members care for children or young people
- Improving school attendance
- Resolving issues following separation or divorce
Every family is different, and an FGC can be adapted to suit your specific circumstances.
How does a Family Group Conference work?
Before the meeting
An independent Family Group Conference coordinator (or facilitator) will:
- Meet with each family member to help them prepare
- Help you identify who should attend the meeting
- Agree a suitable time and place for everyone
- Talk through the concerns and what needs to be resolved
- Support children and young people to share their wishes and feelings
Information shared with the coordinator is kept private unless there is a risk of harm.
What will happen at the Family Group Conference?
Stage 1: Information sharing
The meeting begins with the facilitator and professionals (such as a social worker).
- You will discuss what is working well in your family
- Any worries or concerns will be clearly explained
Stage 2: Private family time
This is a key part of the process.
- The facilitator and professionals leave the room
- Your family has private time to talk openly
- You work together to agree a plan
Your plan will include:
- What actions will be taken
- Who will help and what they will do
- How progress will be checked
- What will happen if the plan is not working
The facilitator will remain nearby if you need support.
Stage 3: Agreeing the plan
The facilitator and social worker return to the meeting:
- You present your family plan
- If the plan addresses the concerns, it will be agreed
- You can make changes if needed before final agreement
A review meeting can be arranged (usually within 8–12 weeks) to check how the plan is working.
What happens after the conference?
After the meeting:
- The facilitator writes up the agreed family plan
- Everyone involved receives a copy
- You can begin putting the plan into action immediately
You will also be invited to a review meeting to:
- Look at what is working well
- Make any changes if needed
Contact information
If you would like to find out more or speak to the Family Group Conference Team, please contact:
Family Group Conference Team
- Alonzi House
- 20 Halsbury Close
- Ardwick
- M12 4NP
- Phone: 0161 234 5602
Summary
A Family Group Conference is an opportunity for families to come together, take control of decisions, and create meaningful solutions that improve outcomes for children and young people.
You are supported throughout the process—but the plan is yours.
Information shared with the coordinator is kept private, unless someone may be at risk of harm.
For more information on how we use data , you can read our privacy policy.