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WHAT TO EXPECT AT A NETWORK MEETINGA FAMILY GUIDE
What is a Network Meeting?
[top of page] Network is an innovative approach to working with families who need the
help of a variety of service systems. It is a "family-friendly" approach that concentrates on a family's strengths rather than just on problems. Network provides a forum which brings together all
of the principal service providers in a community. The group meets with parents, family members and others of the family's choosing. The goal is to jointly create a coordinated, individualized
plan for each family member, utilizing all of the service resources of the community. The plan is family driven, since a Network meeting always focuses on what the family needs.
Why would a family go to a Network meeting?
[top of page]Families turn to a Network when they need the help of more than one system
or agency. Network both simplifies the situation by providing one coordinated service plan, and expands the pool of services available to the family.
Who will be there?
[top of page]A list of member agencies appears on the release form signed by parents before
the meeting. Network is a family-friendly meeting. Members are committed to treating families with respect and share the viewpoint that they are the experts
on their family's situation. Families are equal partners in the planning process. Relatives, friends, neighbors and non-member professionals are welcome to
attend, if families want them to. Also in attendance, whenever possible, will be at least one parent who has already experienced the Network process. The
parent will meet with the family just prior to the meeting, enter the meeting with them, and assist them in any way possible during the meeting.
What will happen at a Network Meeting?
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Network members will introduce themselves to the family. The style of the meeting should be informal. Families are asked why they are bringing their
situation to the Network and how they feel the meeting can help them. Each family member present has input into this process. Network members will help
families to identify the unique strengths, special interests and accomplishments of each family member. From this combination of the family's identified
strengths, a preliminary plan, making use of all of the communities resources, is shaped by the family and the Network members. Families are asked who is it
that helps and supports them; both professionals and people in their lives. These people are considered part of the family's "support circle". The
"support circle" will meet or communicate regularly, helping to support and re-shape the family's plan.
What will the result be?
[top of page]The result of the Network process is that the family will have one coordinated service plan that is shaped by:
what works for the family what the individual strengths are of each family member the unique needs of the family
The plan will draw on the resources of the entire community and will be supported by a circle of family, friends and professionals identified by the
family. Family members will also have immediate access to the support services of family support organizations in the community. Families may return to the larger Network as needed.
In summary, families should:
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EXPECT to be treated with respect in a family friendly atmosphere; EXPECT a real plan, based on their strengths; EXPECT to identify a support circle of people THEY want to work with; - EXPECT to have opportunities to connect with other parents, if they wish to.
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