8. Approach types for interacting with other agencies
Every service or organisation you interact with will have mandatory processes and procedures, and a different approach to this interaction.
It is important to be familiar with these approaches in order to understand the terminology relating to their different roles and the service provision that applies to them.
The community sector uses the terms below to describe their different approaches.
In community services, there is a focus on a developmental approach which helps provide pathways and safe entry levels for individuals and communities to engage. This model has a preventative focus.
This model focuses on building knowledge and participation of communities and relies on the strengthening of community resources. It tends to be collaborative and works with communities as partners.
This approach is aimed at assisting people to recognise and develop their ability and potential, plus organise themselves to respond effectively to problems and. Community development focuses on empowerment and self-determination of communities.
The aim of community education is to educate individuals and groups via formal and informal methods, providing learning and social development work. It aims to include and integrate schools and adult education organisations within these communities to assist individuals and communities to tackle issues and problems through their combined action and community-based learning.
The role of a case manager is to work with individuals in the planning and setting of goals, assessing the individual's needs and strengths and supporting them, as well as coordinating other agencies or individuals to implement activities to meet these goals.
This is about representing a person or community that require support to uphold their rights and assist them to speak out. It often involves the provision of information and further resources for those being supported.
This type of approach requires the involvement of a group of agencies, often in a multidisciplinary setting, working together to provide coordinated, integrated and flexible services often viewed as holistic in nature.
