The department will develop and implement a new practice approach to best meet the needs of South Australian children, young people and families.
After careful consideration, the Department for Child Protection (DCP) has decided to move away from Solution Based Casework (SBC) and to develop and implement an internally designed approach to best meet the needs of South Australian children, young people and families.
This decision takes into account the significant changes that have occurred since SBC was introduced to the department, including the Children and Young People (Safety) Act 2017 and significant reforms to the child protection system. The skills and knowledge developed as part of SBC implementation are highly consistent with best practice in child protection work and will stand us in good stead as we develop our own practice approach.
The practice approach for DCP will provide an integrated and contemporary framework for practice that supports the vision for all children and young people to grow up well cared for, connected and empowered to reach their full potential. The practice approach will be unique to South Australia and will be underpinned by the local legislative and cultural context.
The practice approach will be guided by the report ‘Assessing the Quality and Comprehensive of Child Protection Frameworks’ from the Australian Centre for Child Protection released in 2018. It will reflect current research, theories and other knowledge, and best practice. The approach will also strive to integrate our current tools and guidance, and will include new supports for practice where gaps are identified. The approach will also incorporate reflective and cultural supervision, workforce training and professional development, trauma informed practice and cultural accountability.
An extensive consultation process has commenced with both our staff and the NGO sector. Foster and kin carers will also have an opportunity to be involved over the coming months.