How family group conferencing is transforming practice with adults

What if the people most affected by decisions weren’t just present at meetings – they were in charge? No rigid agendas or professionals leading the conversation. Instead, a welcoming space where individuals and those they trust lead the discussion. 

This is the essence of Family and Group Conferencing (FGC), and it has transformed practice in Camden.

FGC turns traditional meetings on their head. Rather than professionals deciding outcomes, individuals and their chosen networks – family, friends, neighbours, people of their choice – take the lead. They decide what will happen and how they’ll make it work. Professionals provide information and clarify risks, but the plan belongs to the person and their group. It works because people are experts in their own lives.

A decade of growth and integration

Over the past ten years, Camden’s FGC service has evolved from a small initiative aligned with the Care Act 2014 and a strength-based approach to practice, into a cornerstone of adult social care and health. Initially rooted in social care, it now spans health services, mental health teams, and carers’ groups.

FGC team managers participate in weekly multi-disciplinary team (MDT) meetings, where professionals from across health and social care collaborate to find solutions for complex cases. FGC is now a regular referral from GPs, community and complex care nursing teams, memory service, Camden Carers, housing and environmental health, along with the more traditional referrals from social workers.

Evidence of its growing recognition as a practical, person-centred approach is found in the many stories and feedback provided by participants.

Case study: a fresh start

A social worker raised concerns about an older man living in unsafe conditions due to severe hoarding. Traditional interventions had failed – he refused help and wouldn’t allow anyone into his home.

The MDT recommended an FGC. The coordinator arranged a meeting at a venue meaningful to the man, creating a safe and familiar environment. His family attended, and the relaxed setting – with food and time to talk – helped shift the tone from confrontation to collaboration.

During private family time, they agreed on a practical plan: the man would allow a cleaning team into his home, supported by his family to ensure he felt comfortable. This was a breakthrough, improving his living conditions and wellbeing.

Why it works

• Independence: FGC coordinators are impartial practitioners, building trust, preparing the adult, family and network and the professionals by enabling open conversations.
• Flexibility: meetings adapt to individual circumstances and can include family of choice, not just biological relatives. Most FGCs take place in person and are held at a local venue of the adult’s choice. Hybrid options can be used to allow online participation from those who can’t attend in person, or live in another part of the country, or indeed, the world.
• Inclusivity: Camden takes pride in providing a FGC service that reflects the rich culture and diversity of our local communities. This is evident in the wide range of language and dialects present in those who facilitate meetings.
• Empowerment: FGC provides a space where individuals and their networks create their own plans and influence change. Adults who have been involved in conferences have gone on to use their voices and expertise in different spaces; these include delivering training, influencing council priorities and piloting new technology.
• A commitment to hearing the authentic voice: every FGC has the adult’s voice at the centre of the meeting and aims to achieve their full involvement in decision-making. The FGC service can provide a second FGC Coordinator to act as advocate for individuals who may not be able to participate fully at the FGC. 

Looking ahead

FGC is gaining national attention, supported by research and innovation networks. The University of Birmingham is concluding a study to understand how and where FGC is delivered in adult social care and mental health, what difference it makes in people’s lives, and its cost-effectiveness. 

An Adult FGC Research and Practice Network has been created to share learning, connect practitioners, and promote innovation nationally, hosted by Community Catalysts,  social enterprise organisation. Councils are also coming together to prototype adult FGC services and develop a quality mark.

Family Group Conferencing is more than a meeting – it’s a movement towards collaboration, dignity, and respect.