Child protection caseworkers go mobile

Last published on 09 Sep 2020 

Child protection caseworkers will soon have more time in the field to visit and support at-risk children, thanks to a new app designed to revolutionise how they work.

Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Gareth Ward said ChildStory Mobile will transform how child protection caseworkers operate, by giving them access to important documents and data at the touch of a button.

“Less time behind the desk means more time on the ground completing critical assessments that help ensure the safety, welfare and wellbeing of at-risk children,” Mr Ward said.

“The ChildStory app will enable caseworkers to record crucial information into the Department’s system from their mobile devices at any time, without the need for a time-consuming visit to the office.”

This Child Protection Week the NSW Government is reinforcing our commitment to put children first, and to improve the system that protects them.

In the last 10 years there has been a 62 per cent increase in children seen by a caseworker after being reported at risk of harm, a significant reduction in the rate of children entering care, and a suite of reforms undertaken to prioritise permanency.

Work is underway on the design of ChildStory Mobile in consultation with caseworkers, with testing of the platform planned for later this year.

“We are working hard to improve the rate of children reported at risk that our caseworkers see. Embracing this technology will help make caseworkers more agile, efficient, and productive,” Mr Ward said.

“There is still a lot more work to do, but the ChildStory app is another step in the right direction, and I have no doubt that it will contribute to better outcomes for vulnerable children and families in NSW.”

Anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect can report it to the Child Protection Helpline, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Reports are confidential and can be made via 13 21 11. Mandatory reporters are encouraged to report online.