Opening Doors – Framework - ACSO

Contents
Opening Doors – Framework
July 2008
Minister’s foreword v
What is Opening Doors? 1
Principles underpinning Opening Doors 1
Key features of the Opening Doors model 1
The need to improve our response 2
Improving our response—good quality initial assessment for homeless people 3
The importance of first contact 3
Engagement as a practice approach 3
Engaging with people who display challenging behaviours 4
Assessment 4
Initial assessment 5
Specialist initial assessment 5
Intake 5
Case management assessment 5
Prioritisation 5
Key features of Opening Doors 7
Local area service networks 7
Visible entry points 7
Consistent, high quality practice 7
Risk and safety planning in initial assessment 8
Interim response—a strategy for service continuity 8
Transparent, agreed prioritisation practice 9
Resource matching 9
Tools to support service coordination and practice 10
Data collection 10
Initial assessment form 10
Referral form 10
Prioritisation lists 11
Resource register 11
Statewide free-call number 11
Attachment 1: Relationship to other practice responses 12
Homelessness Assistance Service Standards 12
Creating Connections and Youth Homelessness Service Coordination projects 12
Integrated Approach to Family Violence 12
ChildFIRST 12
Primary care partnerships 13
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