Reflecting on Luke’s Place 13th Annual FCSW Gathering
November 4–5, 2025
In early November, Luke’s Place proudly hosted its 13th Annual Family Court Support Worker (FCSW) Gathering, a two-day, in-person training event that brought together more than 60 FCSWs from 38 organizations across the province.
This year, the Gathering introduced interactive workshops, presentations, and panel discussions, designed to equip FCSWs with practical tools and innovative approaches that can be applied in their work.
Grounding the Gathering in Ceremony and Connection
We opened the Gathering by acknowledging the land on which we met and by welcoming Cathy Walker from Giwabamin. Cathy opened the space with a smudge and song. Cathy also offered traditional medicinal tea and shared teachings on herbal medicine as an integral part of self-care. Her opening set the tone for the Gathering, emphasizing the importance of centering Indigenous voices and knowledge in our work and daily lives.
Supporting Indigenous Survivors of Gender-Based Violence
Building on this grounding, Sandra Montour, Executive Director of Ganohkwasra Family Assault Support Services, led a powerful session on supporting Indigenous survivors of gender-based violence (GBV). Sandra highlighted culturally informed, trauma-aware approaches and emphasized centering Indigenous knowledge, connection, resilience, and leadership in all aspects of supporting survivors.
Resources:
Restorative Justice & Is this an Option in IPV Work
FCSWs also explored how transformative and restorative justice can offer alternative pathways to justice and healing. Facilitated by Erin Lee and Pamela Cross, the session included a discussion around sector analysis, existing practices, and opportunities for participants to consider how restorative approaches could be applied in their work.
Workshops and Practical Learning
A series of new interactive workshops was also implemented. Topics included urgent legal options, trials, working with the Family Responsibility Office (FRO), supporting women from rural and remote communities, and the active role of FCSWs in accompaniments
The sessions were highly interactive and well received by participants:
“I appreciate the workshops. Very informative and kept us moving! It was great getting together in person with the other FCSWs. Hearing others’ perspectives about their work is always helpful.”
Panel Discussion: Supporting Unrepresented Women
A panel discussion highlighted innovative legal service models that help unrepresented survivors navigate family court. Panelists represented Luke’s Place, YWCA Peterborough, Community Legal Education Ontario (CLEO), Women in Crisis Algoma, and Barbra Schlifer Commemorative Clinic.
Learn more about the programs discussed:
Self-Care Session
We closed the gathering with a trauma-informed art and self-care workshop led by textile artist Olivia Mae Sinclair, whose practice explores vulnerability, connection, and imperfection through what she calls “sloppy craft.” Olivia’s gentle facilitation offered participants space to process, reflect, and reconnect after two intensive days of learning.
Looking Ahead!
We are grateful to all presenters, facilitators, and participants for their energy, generosity, and commitment.
The Annual Gathering continues to be a vital space for connection, collaboration, and renewal. Supporting survivors of IPV and GBV requires not only legal knowledge, but also compassion, cultural responsiveness, and collective care.
