It is not uncommon for parents to disagree about the goals of care for their child. People’s values, beliefs and their responses to grief vary.

Sometimes one parent is more aware of the child’s suffering than the other. Reassuring parents that disagreement is not unusual and validating the concerns of each can help avoid positions becoming entrenched.

Time and good communication will assist in finding common ground in most cases.

Sometimes parents agree about the goals of care but struggle with members of the extended family. Offering to meet with those family members can be helpful. They are often extremely influential and important in the decision-making process, but may not necessarily know all the facts.

Social workers have particular skills in conflict resolution, so it is crucial to include them in meetings.