Principles of Case Management
Last updated: October 7, 2008
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
Whilst it is acknowledged that this document is primarily an organisational tool to aid case management, it also needs to be remembered that, in the future, children may read their case files as a way of understanding issues from their childhood and the subsequent organisational response.
All agencies must adhere to their own agency recording policy and procedures but the following principles underpin all such procedures. They must ensure the security of children’s records and the integrity of the information that they contain.
Good quality recording is the basis of the following:-
- continuity of service to children and families when staff are unavailable or change, or when a service resumes after a period of time
- effective risk management practices to safeguard the well-being of children, especially in emergency situations;
- effective partnerships between staff within the agency which is recording events, the subject children, their families, their carers, and other agencies/service providers;
- clarity of information for everyone involved in the planning and delivery of services, and in the event of investigations, inquiries, or audits;
- information for staff and managers to ensure the best possible utilisation of available resources;
- information should ensure accountability and adherence to procedures and statutory responsibilities
