Case Study

The Indigo Youth Service operates as a multi-service facility. It has case management, counselling, referral, and accommodation services.

The service accepts referrals for children and youth between 12 and 25 years of age. It is funded primarily from the Department of Community Services but also receives funding through services provided via NDIS and private counselling. The service operates two residential services, short term crisis accommodation and indeterminate timeframe youth shelter. The short-term crisis accommodation is funded by the state government and by rental fees. The youth shelter is funded through community services or through payment by residents if they have income or government benefits.

Referrals may come from other private, nonprofit agencies, government agencies or self-referral.

All referrals are assigned a case manager to work with them to develop an appropriate program of assistance.

Scenario 1

Marie is a13-year-oldAboriginal girl who is in state care. She has been in foster care for two years after being removed from extended family. Currently there is no foster care available and other family are not local and have not been contacted. She has been referred to you by Community Services for emergency accommodation and case management assistance. Marie has experienced traumatic occurrences andoccasionally, actsout, and has been known to use marijuana and alcohol irregularly. She is engaged with school although will randomly truant to meet with friends. She does not appear to have any other physical or psychological disabilities.

What are your duty of care and other legislative requirements regarding this particular client?