Children’s voices guide the way for new model of care | Innovation Unit | creating impact – reducing inequalities – transforming systems

These insights have shaped the initial development of the new model, which was co-designed with Parkerville CYC staff, stakeholders, young people who have transitioned out of care and local survivors of the Stolen Generation in a week-long design sprint.

The model seeks to create a radically personalised approach to care which focuses on the individual needs of each child, the circumstances of their family and their broader community and cultural needs. The model will also focus on the dispositions, skills and experiences that carers need in order to develop a strong personal identity throughout their careers at Parkerville CYC and help children and young people heal from trauma and thrive.

Parkerville CYC’s team are now prototyping and refining the most crucial elements of the ambitious new model; upholding and honouring the voices of children and young people by inviting them into the process as designers and critics, alongside families and other stakeholders in the care ecosystem.

As the new model becomes the new normal, it’s anticipated that longer term impacts will be felt broadly throughout Western Australia: partnerships with families strengthen connections and lead to reduced durations in out-of-home care, collaboration with the Department, communities and schools that seek to reduce the stigma of being in care; and a greater focus on cultural and trauma-informed care that supports children and young people to thrive throughout their lives.