The reform package is called “Safe Home for Life” and has as the underlying principle the permanent placement of children. The reforms have a particular focus on providing early intervention support to parents so that children remain with their families wherever possible and safe to do so.
The role of the Care Partner is to advise clients in the following areas;
- Parent Responsibility Contracts (PRC)
PRCs are an agreement between the Director-General and one or more of the primary care givers of a child aimed at improving their parenting skills. New to the legislation is that either or both expectant parents can also enter into a PRC.
- Parent Capacity Orders (PCO)
This order is to require a parent, or care giver of a child, to attend or participate in a program or service that aims to build or enhance their parenting skills
- Contact Disputes
Once there have been final orders for the child, the Care Partner can provide advice and casework to assist parents to reach an agreement about contact arrangements and enter into an agreement.
RLC’s role as a Care Partner is to work with families in an early intervention model, advocate for them in their contact with FACS and resolve issues without court attendance.
