January 1, 2020 Research and Evidence Using the supervision relationship to promote reflection PublicationBy Research in Practice Download This knowledge briefing is written specifically for practice supervisors and was first published as part of The Practice Supervisor Development Programme. It focuses upon using the supervision relationship to promote reflection both about the experience of the supervision relationship, and about interactional patterns between the worker and the families they support. It contains the following key messages from research and practice evidence about: How relational approaches to supervision can help practice supervisors to facilitate reflective discussions in one-to-one and group supervision. Creating a safe environment for supervisees to reflect on their personal and professional responses to practice in supervision. The need for practice supervisors to help social workers seek exceptions, challenge their thinking and consider a wide range of explanations and possibilities in their work with children and families. The importance of practice supervisors working collaboratively with supervisees to jointly review the impact and experience of supervision. Challenge questions and reflective prompts are included to help you consider how you might use these ideas in your role as practice supervisor.