Talking Together’s Circle Process

Talking Together is a circular process. ‘A Circle’ is a basic Aboriginal symbol. It is also a symbol of Indian Justice. In a Circle, there is no right or left, nor is there a beginning or an end. Every point (person) seated in a circle looks to the same center as the focus. The Circle is the symbol of justice because it is perfect, unbroken, and a simile of unity and oneness. It conveys the image of people gathering together for discussion.

The drawing together of people who know the family, and care about the family, can be a very powerful process. If one considers the solutions that a child welfare organization has available for the family e.g. alcohol treatment, parenting courses, and counselling as a bundle of solutions – in the circle, the bundle has the potential of being much bigger and can be tailor-made to fit the needs of this particular family.

Key to the Talking Together Circle is the importance of confidentiality, the sacredness of the Circle, and the feeling of safety and being heard.

1. A referral is received. The referral is assessed, and the referent is notified of the outcome of the referral. If approved, the referral is forwarded to the appropriate Talking Together Facilitator (TTF).
2. Within 5 days from the referral being approved, the TTF contacts all participants to schedule a Talking Together Circle.
3. Prior to the Circle starting, participants are informed of the confidentiality and sacredness of the Circle. Participants are also required to sign an “Oath of Confidentiality”.
4. After the Circle takes place, and within 5 working days, the TTF provides a copy of the Circle Report/Agreement to the client(s), the child welfare agency and any other significant participant.
5. Further follow-up Circles are scheduled and action items are discussed as necessary.
   The Facilitator is responsible for maintaining contact, to ensure that the circle agreement is being followed.
6. If after 30 days of no contact between the client and TTF or the TTF is unable to locate client, the file is closed.

• Parent(s), guardians and foster parent(s)
• The child or the children
• Key persons involved in helping the family, e.g. family members, elders, social workers, and counsellors.