Stronger Together Designed to strengthen families and help children remain safely in their homes, Stronger Together is an in-home intensive support service tailored for families that are at immediate risk of having their children placed in out-of-home care.
A specialist works in partnership with the family for the duration of the service and meets them in their home at a convenient time. After an initial six-week intensive service, another specialist will assist the family for approximately six months, visiting twice a week to support the achievement of long-term goals.
Stronger Together specialists recognise families’ cultural, spiritual, and religious needs. They understand that culture is a protective factor and strength for the safety and wellbeing of First Nations and culturally and linguistically diverse children and families.
CASE STUDY
When Kara * was referred to AnglicareSA’s Stronger Together program, she stood at a crossroads. Facing the possibility of her children being removed from her care following child protection notifications, she carried the weight of uncertainty, fear, and mistrust – but also the quiet hope that things could be different. The program responded swiftly. Within days, a Senior Practitioner (SP) arrived at Kara’s home, not with judgment or authority, but with warmth, respect, and a commitment to listen. On the front lawn, two of Kara’s young children played, smiling and engaged. Their wellbeing spoke to a mother doing her best under immense pressure. Kara welcomed the worker openly, expressed appreciation, and engaged in conversation about her support network, which included Aboriginal Family Support Services and local childcare providers. Her reflections were grounded in gratitude as she felt seen, cared for, and supported. During that first visit, the SP explored ways to enhance safety in the home. When asked about a backyard room, Kara hesitated. With honesty, she disclosed that cannabis had recently been smoked indoors. Rather than retreating into shame, Kara leaned into the trust and agreed to cease indoor smoking, protect her children from second-hand exposure, and revisit options to create a safe, child-friendly space. This brief engagement over just a single hour set powerful changes in motion: – trust was initiated through culturally responsive, trauma-informed practice
– child safety conversations were held with care and dignity – a commitment to behavioural change emerged in real time – a follow-up plan was created with Kara’s full participation. Strong networks, early intervention, and respectful engagement laid the foundation. With a dedicated worker and coordinated referrals, Kara began a journey toward stability – not weeks or months later, but from the first visit. Kara’s story embodies Stronger Together’s core belief: when families are met with urgency, care, and hope, even the most vulnerable moments can
become turning points. *Name changed for privacy
ANNUAL REPORT 2024 2025 49
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker