Kind words for kids in care
As the State Government embarks on its biggest child protection reform in decades, a key question is "can governments be good parents?"
A Hobart forum yesterday, hosted by Children's Commissioner Paul Mason, heard that small things – such as a few kind and helpful words on a regular basis – could potentially do more for Tasmania's 700 children in out-of-home care than large expensive programs.
Michael Piraino, chief executive of the United States National Court Appointed Special Advocates Association, said when cash-strapped child welfare systems did not fully understand individual children's circumstances, there were bound to be problems. Mr Piraino said providing a loving family life for children taken into care, because of neglect or abuse, could be difficult if not impossible.
He said his organisation aimed to provide the next best thing – a regular stable relationship with a trained volunteer who sought to understand individual children and their needs and ensure they received the most suitable care.
Jacqui Reed, chief executive of the Create Foundation – an Australian organisation that surveys and communicates with children in care – said Queensland was the only state with a structured community visitors program. Ms Reed said children in surveys consistently praised community visitors, who made regular visits to them.
The forum heard that beyond the damage caused by the stigma of being in care children often missed out on basic skills such as budgeting, getting a driver's licence and study.
Bruce Mounster
16 May 2009
http://www.themercury.com.au/article/2009/05/16/73765_tasmania-news.html
