Publications from ODSW Social Insights: Letters by DSW (Vol 2) | Page 49

Working with Various Client Groups
a variety of functional somatic complaints and/or bruising or injuries that
are unexplained or where the explanation does not match. These should
only be used as an indication of possible trauma and as a prompt for a
person to ask appropriate questions about experiences and living situations
to determine what, if any, actions should be taken.

Journeying with families
For many of the families who are referred for help to social service agencies,
it is the start of a journey that can be complemented by befrienders as
many of these families do not have the social networks that enrich their wellbeing. Individuals and families often open up when they experience these
qualities in those who are helping them: warmth, respect, trust, reliability,
non-judgmental acceptance of them, being able to listen to them, treating
others with equality and having good information about how they could
be helped. Community partners and social service practitioners should
continue to work . as they journey with the families receiving help.
Most families want to care for their children. They however vary widely in
their capacity and capability to do so. The role of community partners is to
identify those who may need help by engaging those who are struggling in
order to understand their challenges and dilemmas. Community partners
can play a key role in journeying with these families to draw upon and further
build on the strengths and resources within.

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