Statewide Communication Support Guide

The Communication guide was developed in collaboration with Foster and Kinship Carers (FKC), FKC agencies and the Department of Child Safety across the state as a practical response to the long-identified communication barriers between the care team.

It builds on insights first raised in Partners in Care forum (2017), where carers across Queensland highlighted the need for clearer, more consistent, and respectful information sharing and relationships. Those discussions recognised that poor communication within the care team leads to confusion, frustration and feelings of exclusion.

The Communication Support Guide Tool provides a stand-alone accessible resource that:

• aligns with the roles and responsibilities in the Statement of Commitment

• provides a three-tier level system on how enquiries/matters are to be managed in a timely manner.

• a guideline document for the care team to create a collaborative approach and understanding.

• an example resource to showcase best practice when utilising the tool.

The purpose of this guide is to strengthen relationships between the care team so that carers are informed, included, and equipped to contribute meaningfully. It also aims to ensure carers receive timely responses and support to assist them in their caring role for our most vulnerable children and young people.