FAQs for Children and Young People

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to go?

No,  someone, called an advocate, can speak for you or you can tell us what you would like to say and we can say it for you.

How long will my Family Group Conference go on for?

As long as you and your family need to talk and work out a plan. Usually between three to four hours.

What happens if I have school when my Family Group Conference is taking place?

If you want to attend we can arrange this with your school and ensure you have permission to come along. If you would prefer to go to school then we can ensure that your views are taken to the meeting on your behalf or try and arrange the meeting for after school.

What happens if I don't want somebody at my Family Group Conference?

Your co-ordinator would talk to you about why you don't want them there and if necessary find another way to include them if that is ok with you.

What if someone starts shouting?

Your co-ordinator will be nearby throughout the meeting to help with someone who gets angry or upset. They might suggest that you all take a break for a while or they could stop the meeting altogether.

What would happen if I wanted to go home?

We could arrange for someone to take you home and look after you.

Where will my Family Group Conference be held?

Your meeting will be held somewhere you and your family feel comfortable but not in your own home or a Social Services building. It could be your local community centre or even your school. Your co-ordinator will talk to you about where your meeting will be.

Who has to be there?

The important people in your life. Your family, friends of your family and the workers who currently see you or might be helpful to you in the future.

Why are we having a Family Group Conference?

For you and your family to hear what your social worker or school is worried about how you are doing and then to plan for a better future for you.

Why do we need to have a Family Group Conference?

The person that has asked for you to have a Family Group Conference is concerned that everything isn't right for you at the moment. For example you may have problems at home or at school. A Family Group Conference is a way of everyone, you, your family and friends, getting together to try and sort out these problems.

Will I be bored?

Hopefully not! Your co-ordinator will provide you with something to do if you don't want to stay in your meeting for the whole time. They could bring along some toys/games/artwork for you. Sometimes you can watch a video.

Will someone help me to say what I want to say?

Yes,  either your co-ordinator or a person called an advocate. An advocate can be someone from your own family or if you prefer someone different who will visit you before your Family Group Conference to get to know you.