FDS Support Groups Evaluation 2014.
17
The value of a facilitated support group
The Support Group facilitators were highly commended by participants, for their
skills, knowledge and empathy. Participants also really liked the group dynamic, and
the ‘soft facilitation’, as this makes the groups feel like being in a friendly, supportive
discussion. Many of the facilitators have had an experience of problematic drug use in
their family, others are trained volunteers with a high level of knowledge about drugs
and the impact on families. The feedback concerning individual facilitators was all
very positive.
Some comments regarding the value of the facilitators included the following:
“She is very knowledgeable and dynamic. She has been through what we are going
through – so can clearly identify with our problem. I’m always impressed at the level
of compassion and common sense from the facilitators.”
“The level of compassion insight and knowledge demonstrated by the facilitators is
outstanding. The change in families who attend is fantastic to watch. Support extends
beyond the four walls of the meetings, and beyond the work scope of the facilitators.”
“The group always starts with ‘what’s been happening’. It is very low pressure. New
people are invited to talk, and if they don’t feel like it that’s fine. Although often you
find that after they’ve heard everyone, they do want to talk. It’s such a relief for them
to realise they are not alone.”
“I like the open format, with 'soft' facilitation. I don’t want any changes.”
“The facilitators have been very warm and in a non judgemental environment. It has
helped me immensely to deal with the issues and plan the next step.”
“They are wonderful and so caring and helpful to everyone.”
“If I were not there for the fortnightly sessions I do not know how we would have
survived.”
“The group is well managed by the facilitator and the group dynamics create an
excellent environment to share, listen to other challenges and better understand the
issues going forward.”
Discussion
