The Family and Youth Information (FYI) Program is one of four family support programs at PCRS. The FYI Program is part of the province-wide FASD Key Worker Program and supports families with youth aged 12-18 with diagnoses or suspected fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) and/or other complex developmental and behavioural conditions (CDBCs). Through 1-1 support, parent/caregiver groups, family connection events, and community education, Key Workers provide opportunities for families to connect with others and increase their knowledge and understanding of their child’s strengths and needs.
Our main objective in the FYI Program is to provide parents and caregivers with support with their youth’s diagnosis of FASD. FASD is often still met with stigma in our society and families may struggle with accessing support and resources for their child or youth. The Key Worker Program was created to fill that gap for families that may not be eligible for Children and Youth with Support Needs (CYSN) supports through MCFD
As Key Workers, we work closely with families and their elementary and secondary schools regarding their child/youth’s academic experience and regularly attend individualized education plan (IEP) meetings and other school-related meetings. We also connect youth with social and life skills programs when appropriate to encourage further social-emotional development. During the summer we also offer youth-focused groups based on community skills and social connection. As we also work with families who may not have a formal FASD or CDBC diagnosis, we also support families in navigating the assessment process.
“When I first met this family, there were concerns regarding the youth’s behaviour at school and lack of engagement. After learning more about this young person and their specific strengths and needs, it became apparent that due to their needs, the format and style of content of a particular class were not appropriate for their learning. The family, school staff, and I were able to have a productive meeting and follow-ups that resulted in an adapted format for this student and their engagement quickly increased. Afterward the initial meeting, this youth shared that they felt more heard and comfortable asking for help/adaptations at school. We are all hopefully that going forward, this youth will use their self-advocacy further in school and community life.” – FYI Key Worker
We regularly collaborate with the other Key Worker Programs in Surrey to discuss service delivery and program trends, plan community events, and share resources. Additionally, we regularly facilitate trainings on FASD in the community at and have done so at schools, MCFD, Surrey Police, and other community organizations. We believe that providing up-to-date, accurate, and trauma-informed education is essential in providing effective service and reducing societal stigma related to FASD.
For families navigating the impacts of FASD and CDBCs, the FYI Program offers a compassionate and supportive community.
