Methods used by New Zealand's Maori people will be brought in by Bradford social workers to help families in crisis.

It is hoped family groups will solve their own problems, rather than be 'taken over' by professionals. The idea is based on traditional Maori methods of resolving conflict in which families and communities meet 'in conference' to thrash out differences.

About 60 families are expected to take part in the pilot project over the next year.

The system will be used where there is the possibility of a young person being taken into care, or where a child is classed as 'at risk'.

"Family group conferences will allow a more effective partnership between the authority and individual families, which should enable more young people to remain with their families rather than coming into council care," said Councillor John Godward (Lab, Little Horton), services to children committee chairman.

"If the families feel they are in charge, that their views are being listened to and that they are being allowed to take part in important decision-making, then they will be more willing to work with the authority in the best interests of the children."

The family group conferences will be co-ordinated by a representative of the charity NCH Action for Children, in partnership with Bradford Council.

Social workers will first outline their concerns and explain what help is available to the family.

Family members and friends will then be left in private to come up with a plan, which may involve an aunt and uncle volunteering to share care of the young person.

The professionals then rejoin the family to hear the outcome - and will accept it unless it places the young person at risk of significant harm.

The Maoris, the indigenous people of New Zealand who make up 13 per cent of the population, have a strong cultural tradition of 'Whanau' - which means family - and set great store by the extended family unit.

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