After the comprehensive review of the South Australian Child Protection system via the 2003 Layton Report “Our Best Investment”, the South Australian Government released the “Keeping them safe” policy. Since then, important steps have been taken to bring together whole of government services for children and young people either at risk or under the guardianship of the Minister.
Two key initiatives include the:
- Child Protection Information Sharing Protocol
- Establishment of prioritised Health Standards for children and young people under the guardianship of the Minister (Rapid Response).
The Child Protection Information Sharing Protocol provides guidelines for practitioners to implement the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Child Protection Framework for the Provision of Services between the Department of Health and Department for Families and Communities. Information kits are available upon request.
Following extensive consultation in 2005, Health standards for Children and Young People under the Guardianship of the Minister were developed by Children, Youth & Women’s Health Service in partnership with Families SA to support the implementation of Rapid Response.
Country Health SA, in partnership with Families SA (Country Region) now has the responsibility for implementing these Standards across country South Australia. For more information or requests for resources please contact Country Health SA, Early Childhood Directorate on 8724 5206. |