01
Overview
Prepares practitioners to support families and young people through difficulty, from early help conversations to structured group work. Strong emphasis on strengths-based practice, safeguarding and community assets.
02
Aims of the Course
- Build trusting relationships with families and young people
- Conduct strengths-based assessments and plans
- Deliver effective early help and group work
- Work safely within safeguarding frameworks
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Course Structure
01
Context and Principles
- Family systems and ecological models
- Strengths-based and solution-focused practice
- Early help and prevention
- Power, class and cultural humility
02
Relationship and Engagement
- Home visiting and first contact
- Engaging reluctant families
- Working with adolescents
- Boundaries and professional distance
03
Assessment and Planning
- Strengths and needs assessment
- Genograms and eco-maps
- Writing a family plan with the family
- Reviewing progress honestly
04
Group Work with Young People
- Designing a youth group programme
- Facilitation and group dynamics
- Peer support and mentoring models
- Managing disclosure in groups
05
Safeguarding and Complexity
- Recognising risk in family contexts
- Domestic abuse awareness
- Parental mental health and substance use
- Escalation and multi-agency referral
06
Community Assets and Sustainability
- Mapping community resources
- Co-producing services with residents
- Volunteer management
- Measuring outcomes credibly
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Learning Outcomes
- 01Conduct a strengths-based family assessment
- 02Engage a reluctant young person or parent
- 03Design and deliver a six-session youth group
- 04Recognise and escalate safeguarding risk
- 05Map and mobilise community assets
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Assessment
- Family assessment and plan
- Observed group facilitation
- Safeguarding decision-making exercise
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Entry Requirements
- Open access; volunteering or work experience helpful
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Progression and Careers
- Family support worker
- Youth worker
- Community development officer