Guidance
Partnered response
A partnered response is an early intervention for tamariki and whānau or family who have support needs that don't present a risk of serious harm for te tamaiti, and so don't need a statutory Oranga Tamariki response.Upcoming changes for this guidance
What is a partnered response
A partnered response involves a community service provider working with whānau or family and their tamaiti. It's a less formal way to provide an early, comprehensive and coordinated response.
It's an appropriate intervention when:
- whānau or family circumstances may be impacting on te tamaiti but don't present danger or harm— for example, a parent may need support with housing, finances, health, education, providing positive behaviour support and meeting disability-related needs
- the whānau or family are willing to engage with or already have a relationship with a service provider
- a level of local expertise and engagement may be needed to initiate or strengthen service provision
- there is no current Oranga Tamariki involvement.
When to use a partnered response
A partnered response can be recommended after a child and family assessment where the practitioner does not form a belief that te tamaiti is in need of care or protection, but they are concerned that there are risks or needs relating to the wellbeing of te tamaiti that need a response.
Who does it
Referrals for a partnered response are managed at sites by a senior practitioner or a differential response coordinator dedicated to the role of linking whānau or family with the community services they need.
The differential response coordinator and service provider keep in regular contact to monitor the whānau or family progress and consider any other services or support that they might need.
How to do it
1 Talk to the whānau or family about the partnered response option
They must consent to a referral to a partnered response. If they don't consent, continue to explore alternatives with them.
2 Make a referral to a community service provider
The referral information includes:
- whānau or family details
- the whānau or family situation
- identified care or protection concerns (below the statutory threshold)
- the most appropriate type of service for addressing those needs
- the view of the situation by the whānau or family
- whānau or family strengths that will contribute to achieving outcomes
- a brief summary of relevant whānau or family history
- whether any other service providers are involved with the whānau or family.
3 Make sure te tamaiti and their whānau or family are getting the help they need
Work with the provider to make sure te tamaiti and their whānau or family are getting the help they need and to consider any other services or support that they might need.
4 Review any escalating concerns
Review escalating concerns, if any, at the site pathways meeting.