Family Focused Support is a comprehensive approach aimed at maintaining the integrity of the family unit while addressing the challenges that families may face. Here’s an expanded explanation of each aspect mentioned:

  1. Keeping Families Together: Recognises the fundamental importance of familial bonds in nurturing the growth and development of children and young people. It emphasises the significance of preserving these connections for the overall well-being of individuals.
  2. Hands-on Support within the Family Home: This approach involves actively engaging with families within the comfort of their own homes to address various challenges they may encounter. By immersing themselves in the family environment, support workers gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics, routines, and specific needs of each family member.
  3. Tailored Support: Acknowledges that every family is unique, and therefore, requires personalized assistance tailored to their specific circumstances. By conducting thorough assessments and closely observing family dynamics, support workers can identify areas where additional support is needed and develop targeted intervention plans accordingly.
  4. Progressive Assistance: Involves providing intensive support initially, focusing on teaching essential skills while gradually reducing assistance as the family becomes more proficient and independent. This approach fosters empowerment and resilience within the family unit, enabling them to effectively navigate challenges in the long term.
  5. Informed by Evidence-based Models: Draws upon established models such as the Trauma Recovery Model, Positive Behavioural Support, and Active Support. These models provide frameworks for understanding and addressing various challenges faced by families, offering proven strategies for achieving positive outcomes.
  6. Family Assessments: Involves conducting comprehensive assessments of family functioning, utilizing a range of tools and methods to gather qualitative and quantitative data. These assessments provide valuable insights into the family’s strengths, needs, and areas for growth, guiding the development of tailored intervention plans.
  7. Providing Family Support: Offers practical support to families, including assistance with day-to-day activities, promoting stability and routines, and providing opportunities for positive family interactions. This may involve providing respite care to give family members time to relax and recharge, as well as facilitating engaging activities for children and young people.

Overall, Family Focused Support aims to empower families to overcome challenges, strengthen familial bonds, and promote the well-being and resilience of children and young people within the family unit.