Episode 25: Unpopular opinion! Agencies should not lead parent or foster parent support groups

Shanelle and guest Steve Gonyea wrap up their conversation by digging into why many agency-run “support groups” have good intentions, but miss the mark, especially when supervisors or case managers are in the room. Caregivers, parents, and youth will not share real concerns when the people who evaluate them are listening, so the space is not actually supportive. The conversation covers what new and veteran caregivers really need, which are: timely answers, plain language guidance, and safe places to learn how to navigate court, school, medication questions, and after-hours crises.   Shanelle also shares monthly webinar plans, the idea of training after the train wreck, and invites listeners to the 360º Assessment for partners in the family and child welfare system.   Key takeaways   Support groups must be peer-led or community-hosted with psychological safety, otherwise honest feedback will not surface.   Practical help beats platitudes, even a fast “no” is better than silence when a caregiver is in crisis.   Make court understandable and accessible for youth and caregivers, name what to wear, how to address the judge, and how to share information.   Partner across the ecosystem, families need timely answers, workers need realistic roles, volunteers need clear rules.   Take the SYNCing Child Welfare 360º Assessment today to partner effectively: www.syncingchildwelfare.com!   Steve Gonyea, Co Host, Finding Common Ground Podcast website: https://www.fcgadvocacy.org/about-steve-gonyea  Sensor Barn solution: A vibrant, calming haven for kids and adults with sensory needs (Spectrum News). Email: [email protected]