Definition
A tool designed to identify the most appropriate level of care for a child. It focuses on the safety and wellbeing needs of the child, including developmental milestones, health and behavioural needs as well as social skill attainment. The tool improves transparency and consistency of placement decisions and focuses on the needs of the child.
The CAT score provides an indication of the level of care required.
It is used for all new out-of-home care (OOHC) placements, cases re-entering care, placement changes and transition of carers (and the children in their care) from Community Services to agencies.
What does the CAT do?
The CAT is based on behavioural issues and health and development needs applied across three age groups (under five years, five–eight years, and nine years and over). It then identifies a recommended level of care, across six levels of care and corresponding placement types.
The tool allows for a 30-day review period, during which the agency may request a review of an assessment completed by Community Services. These reviews are only conducted when new or additional information emerges that may affect the level of care required by the child.
Community Services caseworkers are working with non-government agencies to ensure the CAT is completed based on information about the behaviourial or health needs of a child available at the time of placement.
Comments
NOTE: The CAT is not a diagnostic tool and does not identify the underlying reason or cause for particular behavioural issues or health and development issues. It does not replace casework and should not take the place of a full assessment of a child or young person’s strengths and needs. The CAT is completed based on the information available about the child or young person at the time of placement. The completion of the CAT should not be delayed in order to source additional information about the child or young person.
Origin
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