Start measuring service outcomes within new Family Court system

April 1st 2014 sees the introduction of the new Family Court reforms, whereby parties to a family dispute are now more empowered to determine their own destiny regarding the care of their children.

The overdue and legitimate side-lining of Lawyers, Psychologist, and Social Workers, and the initiation of alternative dispute resolution whereby parents get the opportunity to accept self-responsibility in re-negotiating child care arrangements has shown to be more effective than which party has the biggest cheque book, and the most aggressive legal counsel.

One aspect is still glaringly missing however: the formal measurement of service provider’s outcomes with Family Court Consumers.

Until those funding the Family Court raise the bar in terms of service provider accountability, and privilege client voice feedback on same, there is still a grave risk of service incompetence continuing to flourish.

Measure outcomes – or all that is left is “guessing outcomes” – we have had 32 years of that process, and it hasn’t gone well.

Ends

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