Children and Families
Family Development Program
Based in Comox Valley - CARF accredited program
Family Development (FD) workers provide strategies, practical suggestions and support to children and youth (ages 0 to 19 years) and families experiencing long or short term challenges, and/or at risk due to neglect/abuse. Services are geared to support growth and development through a planned and integrated strength based approach. Our cases remain open while a social worker is involved with youth/family.
FD workers advocate for persons served; accomodate special needs; and provide service in a collaborative, respectful manner. Service recipients interviewed expressed gratitude and satisfaction; and described the services as extremely valuable in assisting them to improve their lives and support their loved ones.
Referrals come from Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD). One-on-one outreach work is only open to MCFD referrals. At times there may be educational or informational parent/youth groups open to community.
Program Goals
To provide services so that whenever possible, children and youth will be maintained in their 'family' home and their community. Workers assist families to work towards the goals they establish in conjunction with the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) social workers. Program ensures that whenever possible, families 'have a voice' in identifying the services needed and/or whenever possible in choosing how services are delivered. Workers also assist families to gain knowledge of, and access to local community services; and to increase their capacity for self reliance.
Funded by Ministry of Children and Family Development.
Family Group Conferencing
Based in Comox Valley
Family Group Conferencing (FGC) is a process of collaborative planning in situations where decisions need to be made for children or youth. It is a process that is prepared and facilitated by a neutral coordinator. Is respectful of culture and traditions of children/youth and families.Referrals are either voluntary or mandated as designated by Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD).
Program Goals
To provide collaborative practice that increases children’s safety and lowers risks, by utilizing family and community supports. The belief is that families are able to make safe, effective and creative decisions for the care and protection of their children given the opportunity and the information to do so. FGC enhances a family's capacity and uses their strengths and resources including extended family and community to develop a long term plan for the safety and well being of their children.
