Why trust, not risk, is the starting point for early help.
Our position paper presented to the Thriving Families SA Leadership Collective on building trusted, family-led pathways to early support.
about
Family-Led Pathways to Early Support
This position paper calls for practical changes to make early support safer, more accessible and responsive to families, where asking for help is recognised as a strength, not a risk.
It explores why many families delay seeking support, not because help is unavailable, but because asking for help can feel risky. Drawing on parents’ experiences navigating the Child Protection system, the paper argues that trust, choice and relationships are the foundations of effective early intervention, and that help-seeking should be recognised as a strength rather than a risk.
The paper recommends practical reforms including self-referral pathways, relationship-based practice, peer support, active efforts from practitioners, and funding models that prioritise prevention over crisis response.
OUR OTHER SUBMISSIONS
Parents with Disability and Child Protection
This practice report explores the experiences of parents with disability and identifies practical changes that can create more accessible and supportive pathways through the child protection system.
Supporting Children, Young People and Families Early
A submission calling for earlier support, stronger prevention, and a child and family support system that builds trust as well as it identifies risk.
State Strategy for the Safety and Support of Children and Young People
A submission calling for stronger accountability, practical support and measurable outcomes for children, young people and families.
SUPPORT REILY
The Reily Foundation welcomes partnerships and sponsorship opportunities to help expand access to our support programs and services across South Australia. Sponsorship opportunities may include program delivery, parent participation support, venue partnerships, resources, and community impact initiatives.
To learn more about current sponsorship and partnership opportunities, please contact 📧 info@thereily.foundation.