The SA Government has committed to reforming the child protection system in South Australia. The Department of Human Services (DHS) has lead responsibility for implementing the Child and Family Support System (CFSS) reform, in which Safer Family Services plays a key part.
Safer Family Services (SFS) provides help and support to children and their families at risk of harm, neglect and family violence, by deliberately and strongly intervening to disrupt the patterns of intergenerational trauma, and increase the number of children able to be cared for safely in their homes, connected to culture and community.
This is particularly relevant for children and families with multiple and complex needs.
The Community Development Coordinator (CDC) is a role within Safer Family Services and is accountable to the Senior Community Development Coordinator for:
• Developing effective partnerships with agencies and organisations for the successful coordination of family and community programs within the Children’s Centre and wider community that enhance parenting and community capacity with a focus on health, care, education, family support and wellbeing for families.
• Applying knowledge and understanding of community strengths and needs to support children and families with high and complex needs to be safe, well and connected to community and culture.
The CDC’s work in partnership with other agencies to facilitate a range of programs and services that include groups for parents and carers, parenting programs and community events and personal development to enhance skill development.
The role requires the incumbent to participate in the implementation of an interagency approach, ensuring the work connected with Children's Centres contributes to capacity building of children, families and communities.
• Contribute their knowledge of community development, the local community and strategies to increase families active participation in the centre and in the broader community.
The Children's Centre Program is a collaborative early childhood initiative that brings together care, education, health, community development activities and family services for families and young children.