How can I help parents and carers with really tricky situations?
Session 2.1 · Note 9
Supporting Families in Tricky Situations
Families' lives are tricky and you will inevitably come across difficult situations: bereavement, family breakdowns, domestic violence, additional needs, mental health issues. You are unlikely to be an expert in any of these, but you may well be a family's first point of contact.
Key Ideas
- Remember, they will come to you because they know and trust you. They usually won't be expecting you to come up with solutions.
- Listen well, so you are sure of what they are going through or need.
- If they need help or advice, signpost them to appropriate organisations or resources. Sometimes people appreciate an offer to go with them to appointments. But don't feel pressured to do anything that you don't feel comfortable with.
- Be aware of who else in church can help: your pastor, safeguarding officer, people with expertise.
- Do offer to pray for them.
- Look after yourself too - you may need support or debriefing.
- Access Parenting for Faith articles exploring how to support families in a range of tricky situations, including supporting families and supporting parents and carers of children with additional needs.
Top Tips from Others
- Particularly if it's something tricky, don't feel overwhelmed. Offer what you can and signpost them to other resources and organisations.
- Talk to your church leaders in advance about how your church can support people so you know the basics.
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