Family Group Conference.

Empowering families to make healthy decisions for the safety of their children today and tomorrow.

what is a family group conference?

A Family Group Conference is a voluntary opportunity for family members, friends and service providers to come together to make decisions about the care, placement and future of the child that is currently involved with Child Protective Services (CPS).

what is ACH Child and Family Services' role in a family group conference?

ACH staff coordinates conference details, time and location. During the conference, ACH staff members are neutral, unbiased moderators and ensure that all participants are given the opportunity to make a contribution to the conference. ACH is a private, non-profit organization and is independent from CPS. Our only goal is a successful plan that meets your hopes and dreams for your child and that keeps your child safe.

We believe families have the strengths and abilities to protect their children. We value the thoughts, feelings and contributions of all conference participants.

who is invited to the conference?

Parents have the choice to invite anyone they would like to have attend the conference. This may include: close and extended family, close family friends, neighbors, teachers, coaches, the family's faith leader, etc. Additional participants may include: Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), CPS caseworkers and foster parents.

what happens at a family group conference?

During the conference we will:

• Identify...reasons for the conference
• Share...hopes and dreams for the child
• Engage in Private Family Time...family develops a plan
• Agree to a Final Plan...family presents plan to CPS

what is private family time?

During the conference, family members have a time to themselves - without the presence of CPS - to come up with a "family plan" that meets the family's needs and also ensures the protection and safety of the child.

what happens after the conference?

All conference participants agree to, and sign off on, the plan. Each participant receives a copy of the plan. All legal representatives involved in the case are also notified of the conference outcome. CPS monitors plan compliance.

how much does a family group conference cost?

There is no cost to the conference participants.

is childcare offered during the conference?

Childcare is available during the conference. Talk to your ACH representative about childcare options before the conference.

how will a family group conference help my family?

You will:

• gain a greater voice in the decisions about the future of your child.
• be empowered to provide for your child's safety and well-being.
• develop a plan that maps out a safe solution for your child.
• strengthen and mobilize your support network.
• gain greater access to needed social services and other resources.
• develop a better relationship with those organizations working on your case.

Family Group Conference is funded in part by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.