Familjekontakter

Familjekontakter, or family contacts, is a term used in social care and health services to describe the network of relatives and family members who are involved in an individual’s life, care, and decision-making. The concept emphasizes the ongoing importance of family ties for well-being and support, alongside professional care.

In practice, familjekontakter can include parents, siblings, grandparents, or other close relatives who contribute information, accompany the person to appointments, facilitate visits, and participate in planning for education, housing, or health care. In child welfare, a family contact may help maintain connections with relatives and support the child’s sense of identity. In elder or disability care, family contacts may be consulted by care teams and included in guardianship or care planning.

Responsibilities and rights: Family contacts may be asked to provide consent for information sharing, support planning, or decision-making within legal boundaries, while protecting the individual’s privacy and autonomy. Cultural and linguistic considerations are important, and participation should be voluntary and respectful of the person’s wishes.

Challenges: Family involvement can be affected by conflicts of interest, dynamics within the family, geographic distance, or differing views on care. Professionals should aim for transparent communication, clear roles, and processes that safeguard the person’s best interests while honoring family ties.

See also: family involvement, care planning, guardianship.