BC Council for Families

Staying on top of the latest research on families and services requires enthusiasm for on-going learning. The Canadian Child Welfare Research Portal, a clearinghouse of information for child welfare professionals, researchers and the general public, is a great resource that breaks down what’s what in new research and makes on going learning easier.

Their collection of information sheets includes a range of topics on child welfare. One of these, Family Group Conferencing, outlines an approach to helping families make decisions and resolve differences in a space where they can work collaboratively. Immediate family and extended family, as well as, people who have significant relationships with the family or child, can be involved. It also broadens families’ circles of support through community agencies.

This inclusive process has been shown to increase family cohesiveness, communication and understanding. For more details on Family Group Conferencing and other resources, check out the Canadian Child Welfare Research Portal’s site, one of four National Centres of Excellence to improve the lives of children and youth funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada.