Family involvement

Ask family members to provide information about a person’s life and personality in writing or on audiotape, or by attending a care planning meeting.
Invite family and friends to make a photo storybook or display board of a person’s life.
Share information about a person’s daily experiences and special activities. Develop a partnership with the family.
Explicitly contact family members to encourage participation, questions and comments.
Discuss how family members might help in care routines or activities and provide opportunities for them to do so.
Encourage involvement in activities that keep family connectedness.
Invite family and friends to play a part in special events, for example birthdays, Sunday lunch and religious celebrations.
Be attuned to cultural events and occasions friends and family members can share, for example Easter preparations for Greek people and New Year celebrations for Chinese people.
Accept that staff, family and friends each have a distinct role to play and distinct kinds of knowledge to offer.
Be honest, approachable and open with family members.

Reviewed 18 February 2016

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