A Practioner's Perspective

Rozeta is a social worker and describes FGC as a great tool. Like a multi-tool that combines utensils such as a nail file and bottle opener into one, the FGC tool is multi-functional. One innovative use of the ‘tool’ is to bring a family or network together to protect and support a family member. Another function of the FGC ‘tool’ is to take the pressure off when she is overwhelmed by her caseload.

Rozeta has found that no family refuses an FGC once it is explained to them that this is their meeting to make their plan. She recently worked with an older couple and their family at a time when they were in crisis over securing a place in a residential home. She found that the process of FGC, which includes information gathering, planning and private family time gave the family members the time and space to properly consider what would benefit the older couple in the long term.

Rozeta described the FGC coordinator’s experience in having difficult conversations with families as key to having a productive meeting. The coordinator built a rapport with the family and the family produced two plans, one for each grandparent.

Rozeta spoke about how it feels good as a practitioner to have the FGC coordinator chairing the meeting, meaning that she can focus on what is being said and how she can help the family or adult to achieve their plan. She is trying to raise FGC’s profile amongst her colleagues. She encourages other social workers to see FGC meetings’ value as making a caseload easier and not harder, as many expect. Rozeta wants to help other practitioners discover FGC and take full advantage of the ‘tool’ at their fingertips.