CARE: Creating conditions for change
At Challenge Community Services, we’re proud to use the CARE model as a foundation for how we support children, young people, and their families. CARE is an evidence-based, trauma-informed model focused on creating the conditions for positive change, that was developed by Cornell University.
What is the CARE model?
CARE (Children and Residential Experiences) provides us with a structured framework to apply key theories related to trauma, attachment, and child development. By embedding these principles into our everyday work, both our staff and carers have a clear and consistent approach to supporting children and young people, helping us to deliver on our commitment to their wellbeing and growth.
Why do we use CARE?
The Out of Home Care sector has changed significantly over the past decade. Important reports and inquiries have highlighted the need for child-focused reforms, leading to initiatives like the Keep Them Safe report and Child Safe Standards, which shape our practices.
A trauma-informed approach underpins these standards, emphasizing the importance of understanding children’s experiences in OOHC. The CARE model offers an evidence-based framework to help us meet these standards, fostering an environment where children and young people can thrive.
Our approach to CARE is guided by three core concepts:
1. Best interests of the child:
Every action, decision and practice within Challenge is centred about what is in the best interest of the child or young person. Challenge staff support carers to make decisions with a focus on ensuing children’s safety, growth and development.
2. Organisational Congruence:
Challenge aligns its policies, practices and culture to consistently reflect the principles of the CARE framework. This ensures staff work consistently towards the common goal of supporting children and young people.
Congruence across practices establishes foundations for positive outcomes for children, young people their families and carers in their care experience.
3. An evidence-based program model:
Challenge is committed to best practices steeped in research. This ensures that the services provided are the highest quality and have a positive impact on children, young people, their families and our carers alike. The CARE framework provides a unifying language that guides daily interactions, interventions with families and their children.
The six CARE principles
The CARE model is rooted in six guiding principles that shape our beliefs, behaviours, and practices:
Relationship Based
Building strong, supportive attachments is essential. We prioritise relationships that foster trust and connection.
Developmentally Focused
Our activities are carefully designed to match each child’s developmental stage, encouraging growth, confidence, and a sense of identity.
Trauma Informed
By responding sensitively to trauma, we help children feel safe and understood, creating a foundation for healing.
Family Involved
We know that family connections are vital. Our approach ensures we work in partnership with families to support each child.
Competency Centred
We focus on building skills and confidence through meaningful, goal-oriented activities and interactions.
Ecologically Oriented
Creating engaging, supportive environments help children to feel secure and connected to their surroundings.
For more details about the CARE model and training options, download our overview resource or reach out to our Foster Care team.
