Exciting Evolution: A Fresh Look for Our Beloved SFSC Manual!
Get ready to reconnect with an old friend, reimagined! We’re pleased to announce the
comprehensive rework of our cherished SFSC (Strengthening Families, Strengthening
Communities) Facilitator Manual and some of the accompanying resources, including the
presentation slides and standard parent manual which will follow. We undertook a full, page-
by-page, session-by-session review, to make sure our delivery guidance and materials are
as effective and helpful as possible. Since its original UK launch in 2000, the SFSC
curriculum as set out in the manual has been integral to the success of countless
programmes, thanks to its considerable evidence base and universally applicable approach.
While it’s seen several thoughtful tweaks over the years, this latest revision truly embraces
the notion that everyone can benefit from a refresh!
More Inclusive, More Relevant
We’ve considered the latest evidence in parenting and group learning, ensuring our
guidance remains relevant and impactful. You’ll also notice updated language designed to
be more inclusive, particularly for parents of neurodivergent children. This is a vital step in
making our programme accessible and relevant to every family we serve.
The Heart of SFSC Remains
Rest assured, the heart and soul of SFSC remain untouched. We didn’t dare change the
effective foundational concepts that underpin SFSC, so the familiar Building Blocks for
Success – including the main iconic five tier diagram are just as you know and love them.
What we have done is remind facilitators throughout the sessions to support parents to see
how the programme’s BBS helps their children develop those desired childhood
characteristics: healthy Self-esteem, Self-discipline, and Social competence.
Keeping Up with the Times
We’ve incorporated new guidance regarding the use of corrective strategies like
Confrontation and Time-out. We’ve reflected changes in UK legislation on smacking
regarding the removal of the “reasonable chastisement” defence in Scotland and Wales. We
have introduced new information about teenage brain development relating to emotional
regulation, solution building and risk taking, and we have featured the use of social media
through some of the rites of passage.
Even More Support Available
This revitalised manual will work in tandem with our various SFSC supplements, including
newly created specific delivery guidance for parents of neurodivergent children, reducing
parental conflict, children involved in serious youth violence or radicalisation and extremism
and parents with under-fives. We will also produce new resources that covers delivering the
programme to parents in prison.
Join Us for the Launch!
The new manual is poised for launch this September 2025 at the SFSC Anniversary
Conference – a perfect occasion to celebrate this significant evolution. Get ready to
experience the beloved SFSC programme, refreshed and ready to empower another
generation of families!
