Reconnect for parents and carers
How Reconnect can help
Community based Reconnect services help around 7,000 young people each year. They aim to improve relationships with family, help young people stay in school or work, and encourage connection in the local community.
Reconnect recognises that problems faced by young people are not isolated from other aspects of their life. Education, family, community participation and employment are also a consideration.
Reconnect looks at the whole person and/or family to develop a plan that tackles more than just the immediate issue. The aim is to find solutions to address longer-term goals.
Reconnect does not replace child protection agencies or provide crisis or temporary housing.
Where a young person may be at risk of harm the police or an ambulance should be called.
Reconnect principles
Reconnect service providers follow eight good practice principles to ensure effective service delivery. Reconnect services are:
- client-centred
- accessible
- sustainable
- relationship-based
- collaborative
- holistic
- culturally and contextually competent.
Reconnect ensures ongoing review and evaluation.
Examples of approaches typically used by Reconnect workers include:
- assessment and goal setting
- case management
- referral
- advocacy
- counselling (individual and family)
- mediation
- group work
- outreach
- practical support
- brokerage
- therapies (individual and family)
- collaboration with other services (specialists, community stakeholders and networks).