If all problems are relational, then relationships also hold the solutions.

In this popular workshop, Mary Glasgow set out the principles of a restorative, child-centered and family-minded approach that aims to mitigate the effects of adverse childhood experience and trauma-informed development, through shared responsibility and the repair of damaged attachments.

More a state of mind than a theory, relational based practice is a way of communicating and resolving difficulties, and building and strengthening the developmental relationships that are essential for effective interventions. In relationship based practice social or emotional problems are subjected to integrated or psychosocial approaches instead of technical or clinical responses. This way the relationship is the channel for support and help.

Mary Glasgow is Director of Children and Family Services for Children 1st . She qualified as a social worker in 1991, and has spent 25 years in statutory and third sector social work/social care as a practitioner, trainer, manager and leader. Her special interest is the use of family-minded practice to protect children’s rights and wellbeing and build strong families and communities.

You can download Mary's presentation by clicking the link below.

Resources

Mary Glasgow: Relationship Based Practice: What does it really look like? (PDF)

The Real Toolkit: Leaving care resource for care experienced people and the workforce which contains a number of guides including those on building relationships.