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H&R MFRC Family Centred Approach

Military Family Services’ (MFS) definition of family is: “The military family is understood to be all Canadian Armed Forces’ personnel, Regular and Reserve Force, and their spouses, partners, parents, children and relatives. Medically released members and their families are also included as well as family members and persons of significance to Canadian Armed Forces personnel who die while serving”.

Family Centred Practice means that families know what their needs are and what works best and therefore must influence the approaches and offerings developed by service providers. In serving families, resources and efforts are channeled to develop solutions that are shaped by families and deliver tangible, meaningful outcomes to them.

The H&R MFRC Family Centred Practice Model includes the following core elements and is the basis of how support is provided to our community. We:

  • Recognize family strengths, individuality and different methods of coping;
  • Honour the racial, ethnic, cultural, and socio-economic diversity of families;
  • Respect families complex and ever-changing diverse needs and priorities;
  • Focus on the family as a whole; work with the family unit to ensure the safety and well-being of all;
  • Build relationships characterized by mutual trust, respect, honesty and open communication;
  • Share complete and unbiased information with families in supportive ways;
  • Work in partnership with families at all levels;
  • Use developmentally appropriate practice;
  • Encourage family-to-family support and connections; and
  • Connect families with community supports and services.

Inclusion Statement

The H&R MFRC accepts and welcomes military and veteran families of all abilities. We believe that all individuals deserve an environment and experiences that promote growth in all areas of their development. Our programs and services endeavour to provide for the full inclusion of individuals and families with diverse needs; some reflecting their family’s background or culture. Our team will collaborate with families to develop a plan that will support a positive program experience. If you would like more information, please feel free to reach out to melissa.clark@hrmfrc.ca.