Standard 8: Building relationships that support change

We will:

• visit children and their family often to focus on the changes needed for each child to thrive
• make and review Family Action Plans with parents and family on time and set realistic timeframes
• work with children and families to make sure we set goals that are meaningful, realistic, and achievable
• ask and be flexible about what supports are needed for families to reach their goals
• understand that change is hard and different for everyone
• support every step taken toward change – big and small
• be creative and flexible so we work in a way that suits the needs of children and families
• be clear, respectful and honest about:
  • why we are involved
  • what we are worried about
  • what needs to change and what these changes mean for children
  • what children will see, hear and feel if these changes happen
  • what we will do to help
  • the child’s rights and our responsibility to help them
• see children and family’s strengths and courage
• work with children, their family, kin, community, and professionals as a team with and around the child
• offer a Family Group Conference to involve families in decision-making
• give practical help and support to help families create lasting change

What we mean by…

Family Action Plans are about building safety to support children to stay at home. These plans are made with families to work on the things that need to change to keep children safe now, and in the future.

Family Group Conference is a type of Alternative Dispute Resolution that looks at a family strengths and needs. It is a chance for families to get involved in making their own plans to keep children safe. Learn more about Family Group Conferences.