A generic term that includes a number of approaches in which family members are brought together to make decisions about how to care for their children and develop a plan for services. Families are engaged and empowered by child welfare agencies to make decisions and develop plans that protect their children from experiencing further abuse and neglect. Different terms used for this type of intervention include “family group conferencing,” “family team conferencing,” “family team decision-making,” “family team meetings,” “family unity meetings,” and “team decision-making.” Approaches differ in various aspects, but most consist of several phases and employ a trained facilitator or coordinator. (www.childwelfare.gov)
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