Prevention and early intervention
Investing in prevention and early intervention is a well recognised evidence based approach that offers the best long term outcomes for children and families.
When is a prevention or early intervention response appropriate?
There is no general, one size fits all answer. Whether prevention or early intervention meets a family’s needs will be unique to each situation. Working in partnership with families is the best way to understand their circumstances and the outcomes they want to achieve. Many prevention and early intervention services work with specific groups or have specific goals, it is critical to find the right fit for each family and family member.
The needs of families change over time. Changes in circumstances can rapidly increase or decrease need, and families are likely to share more about their world as trust builds with services and professionals. Being prepared to change our approach as things evolve is a core part of working in the child protection and wellbeing sector.
The Mandatory Reporter Guide (MRG) is an important tool that supports decision making about the needs of children and families, including the most appropriate response. In Part 6: Reporting and responding to child wellbeing and safety concerns, further information is provided about how to use this tool.