|
System of Care |
You may or may not have heard of the term "System of Care" used if you have ever been involved with human services, such as those offered through the Erie County Departments of Social Services, Probation or Mental Health. System of Care is comprised of a collaboration of partners who work together to serve families, youth and members of our local community, to be safe, healthy, and live successfully in our community.
Nationally, it is defined as: an incorporation of a broad array of services and supports that are organized into a coordinated network, integrating care planning and management across multiple levels, is culturally and linguistically competent, and builds meaningful partnerships with families and youth at service delivery, management and policy levels.
More simply put, it is a large network of professionals, service providers, community members, and family partners who all work for the betterment of families, youth and children.
*System Values and Principles include:
- a comprehensive array of services
- individualized services guided by an individualized service plan
- least restrictive environment that is clinically appropriate
- families and surrogate families full participants in all aspects of the planning and delivery of services
- integrated services
- care management or similar mechanisms
- early identification and intervention
- smooth transitions to adult services, when they are needed
- rights protected, and effective advocacy efforts promoted
- receive services without regard to race, religion, national origin, gender, physical disability, or other characteristics and services should be sensitive and responsive to cultural differences and special needs
*Stroul, B., & Friedman, R. (1986). A system of care for children and youth with severe emotional disturbances (Rev. ed.) Georgetown University Child Development Center, National Technical Assistance Center for Children's Mental Health: Washington, D.C. Reprinted by permission.
As examples of those who would work together locally in our community, you can think of the following (including but not limited to):
- a mental health clinician or therapist
- a probation officer, or PINS Diversion officer
- a school social worker or teacher,
- a Child Protective Services worker of foster or adoptive services worker,
- a pastor, or faith based leader,
- a mentor, or skillbuilder
- a family advocate, or a parent aide,
- a community center,
- a friend or peer,
- and of course family members
