Prof. Clare Tilbury has worked with SNAICC to research and develop a report detailing strong practice approaches of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled agencies providing intensive and targeted support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families at risk of, or subject to, child protection intervention. The report provides a detailed account of the elements of different models of intensive and targeted family support and how they are being implemented and adapted to support families. In particular, the report recognises the specific elements of practice that are adapted to take account of the diverse cultures and specific needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families.
Drawing on the practice experience and knowledge of five Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander agencies across Australia, the research report addresses the following practice areas:
- matching services to child and family needs
- working with statutory agencies
- building partnerships with family members
- providing a mix of practical, educational, therapeutic and advocacy supports
- intensity and duration of service delivery
- family participation in planning and decision making
- cultural competence and respect
The Moving to Prevention report provides testament to the quality and purposeful practice of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander agencies and their workers who are supporting families to build on their strengths and address challenges in caring for children. These stories of services and workers empowering families to change direction are truly inspiring. The report provides a wealth of information about good practice that will be useful to services, practitioners, policy makers and researchers. SNAICC will soon release a new resource that draws on this research to support services and practitioners in developing their practice to better support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families.
