Time For Change And A Change In Time! - The Development of a Differential Response Model in Aotearoa New Zealand

Author & Presenter

Sturmfels D Kennard J , et al

Organisation

Child Youth & Family Wellington New Zealand

Child Youth and Family (CYF) New Zealand's statutory child protection agency along with similar services in other countries have struggled with care and protection social work being driven increasing notifications contributing to a focus on forensic investigation, resulting in reduced flexibility of service provision to address the best interests of the child and family. The risk focused forensically driven and intrusive nature of care and protection investigations can work against effective engagement of families. While the purpose of an investigation and the accompanying statutory powers are aimed at protecting children and can ultimately mean the removal of children from their caregivers, the engagement of families is imperative to the long term outcomes for children. This is particularly relevant in cases of neglect and complex behavioural problems.

Underpinned by legislative change CYF are introducing a Differential Response Model (DRM) to respond more flexibly and appropriately to notifications of abuse and neglect. The DRM will build on effective collaboration with NGOs and other government agencies to ensure the best possible outcomes for children and their families. Under the proposed DRM, Child, Youth and Family undertakes a preliminary assessment of every notification. This preliminary assessment will determine the most appropriate response according to a menu of available options including a care and protection investigation and a child and family assessment.

The DRM marks a major shift in direction for CYF and will significantly alter the national child protection landscape. It is built solidly on principles of engagement with children families communities and the NGO sector. This paper describes the journey as the DRM project is implemented and the learning gathered along the way.

Biography

Debbie Sturmfels is the leader of the DRM project team. Debbie is an experienced social worker and manager. Jill Kennard is a member of the DRM project team and has extensive experience in social work practice and policy development.