Work of the Family Group Conference Network

The Family Group Conference Network comprises local FGC projects in England and Wales.  Family Rights Group in conjunction with the Network 

• supports the continuing development of practice standards.  The Network members were key contributors to the principles and practice guidance published in 2002 and the FGC toolkit launched in 2006;
• has led the development of the pilot accredited post graduate certificate for co-ordinators, in conjunction with the University of Chester
• produces a tri-annual newsletter. The newsletter aims to keep everyone in the Network informed, particularly about the work of the Network. It is also a place to develop and debate ideas. If you are interested in providing an article for the newsletter or you have any comments about the content, please contact Nick Thayre,  the current editor on fgc@torbay.gov.uk;
• publishes an electronic directory of FGC projects listed by our Network members but available for all the public to view
• runs a members' message board to enable projects to learn from each other;
• produced the videos/DVDs about FGCs - Taking Care of the Children -  it is available as a training resource or to give to families who are attending an FGC;
• actively promotes service user involvement. We involve family members in the Network and encourage them to join. We also support local projects to establish family member groups;
• produced training materials promoting best practice in ensuring the voices of children and young people are heard at their FGC;
• supports the Black Perspectives Group which brings together black practitioners, researchers, and policy members who focus on ensuring that FGCs meet the needs of black families;
• responds to Government policy proposals and lobbies to influence policy and legislation to ensure that it is supportive of FGCs;
• encourages the development of new FGC projects and supports those who are just starting out. We do this by speaking at, and organising, conferences, Network days and seminars, and by training;
• ensures Network members are kept informed, sending out information of interest. We also organise seminars;
• maintains links with research organisations and provides information about current research;
• runs introductory and advanced training for members of the Network and organises conferences;
• supports the innovative application of FGCs in education, youth justice, domestic violence, adult service and other arenas;
• promotes involvement in the European FGC network and works with countries developing FGC services