The Best Family in Melbourne: Building Empathy and Awe for Clients with Complex Needs
摘要
As practitioners in the field, sometimes we are asked to support families who have challenges that appear impossible to resolve. In social work and allied health training, the use of “real-life” examples can give colour to academic concepts. In this activity, the story of a large family with complex social issues provides a foundation to explore dynamic and strengths-based interventions. Tutors can use this group brainstorming activity to bring theory to life by presenting a multilayered story and showcasing creative, caring solutions. Based on themes from Bronfenbrenner’s ecosystems model, this activity draws attention to the survival skills of families and the structural barriers around them. Upon completion, students may find themselves in awe of the power and inner strength of service users, and with new ideas on how to begin a multifocused intervention.