Home > A formative evaluation of Jobstown Alternative Response Model.

Landy, Fergal and Canavan, John (2010) A formative evaluation of Jobstown Alternative Response Model. Galway: UNESCO Child and Family Research Centre, National University of Ireland Galway.

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Following an introductory chapter, Chapter 2 provides the context and rationale for the ARM, by outlining the policy and legislative context, the theoretical context, the local context and the ARM model as applied in Jobstown. Chapter 3 presents the findings on the stakeholders‘ perspectives of the Jobstown ARM. Chapter 4 offers a discussion of the findings in light of the theory discussed in Chapter 2, while Chapter 5 provides a set of conclusions and recommendations.

• The differential response model (DRM), also known as the alternative response model (ARM), could be viewed as a specific attempt to reconcile the inherent tensions between child protection and family support.
• The DRM/ARM ensures low- and moderate-risk cases are provided with a comprehensive family assessment and are offered timely services without a formal determination or substantiation of child abuse or neglect; only high-risk cases receive the traditional investigative response.
• The DRM/ARM can be viewed as a step towards a closer relationship between the statutory-based social work resources and the non-government sector, as well as providing more comprehensive outcomes-focused provision.

The Jobstown ARM arose in the context of the work plan of SDCSC. Key local managers attended a seminar held by the Children‘s Act Advisory Board on the differential response model in 2008. A study visit to the New Beginnings Project in Foyle Trust in Derry also took place. An inter-agency committee was brought together, and a model was developed that sought to capitalise on the strengths of the differential response model as well as operationalising the Agenda for Children‘s Services.


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