Support Groups: Member Expulsion
4-20-30
PROGRAMS AND SERVICES MANUAL
POLICY
SUPPORT GROUPS: MEMBER EXPULSION
Difficulties with individual group members are ideally dealt with within the context of the group in a manner which respects group members' ownership of, and responsibility for, the group process. Where problems arise that affect the functioning of a group, group members are encouraged to identify the problem within the group milieu, and with the support of the facilitators, work towards satisfactory resolution of the problem.
The facilitators are to inform the Support Group Coordinator of the situation and seek assistance as appropriate.
In extreme circumstances where an individual threatens or causes harm to fellow group members, or is disruptive to the extent that the group is unable to function productively, the individual may ultimately be expelled from the group.
The decision to expel a group member is generally taken to and carried out by the group members in consultation with the group facilitators and awareness of the Support Group Coordinator. When requested by group members to do so, the Support Group Coordinator may intervene by contacting the member in question to review the situation and discuss alternative services.
(Also see Refusal of Service, PS # 2-50.)
