PSA amended direction on BSPs to members in Caseworker role:
“The PSA directs members (Caseworkers) to not take primary responsibility in drafting and or implementing Behaviour Support Plans (BSP). In cases where a BSP is required, caseworkers are directed to email their manager caseworker stating ‘In accordance with a direction from my union (PSA) I will not take primary responsibility for drafting and or implementing a Behavioural Support Plan for (name of CYP). I have referred this to my MCW recommending that a suitably qualified psychologist and or behaviour support expert is engaged to develop and implement the BSP. This is in the best interest of the (name of CYP).’
The change in direction is that members are to email their manager caseworker rather than record the direction on ChildStory. The direction to not take primary responsibility on BSP’s continues.
For many years, members, especially those who are Caseworkers in Out of Home Care (OOHC), have been raising concerns about Behavioural Support Plans (BSPs) with the PSA.
PSA officials and delegates have been raising members’ concerns with the Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) Executive over the past 2 years, including at Joint Consultative Committees in 2022.
The Departments own information states,
“Where a child or young person exhibits challenging behaviour that goes beyond what you can reasonably be expected to manage as a carer, a Behaviour Support Plan may be required. The plan is prepared by a psychologist or similar expert who is skilled in working with challenging behaviour.”
Currently the Department’s guidelines state that Caseworkers are able to develop BSPs in foster and family-based care, such as relative and kinship care. Caseworkers have pointed out that the guidelines also state that ‘Positive Behaviour Support’ training is foundational and does not qualify a staff member as a behaviour support expert.
The following comments reflect members views:
“Every child in OOHC should have the attention of a professional psychologist who can understand what they are trying to tell us in their behaviour.”
“Children and families deserve better structured and professional plans by a trained professional. This will have a positive impact on the young person’s placement and stability.”
“I do not feel that I am qualified to write up a BSP, and that me doing so is a disservice to the young people and children we work with.”
“DCJ need to stop tasking EVERYTHING with caseworkers – it’s ridiculous.”
“The BSP becomes just a document and not a tool that young people and carers can actively use to assist with concerning behaviours esp. self-harming, suicidal attempts.”
“Psychologists should be writing these (BSPs) and if they do not have the capacity, then the Department should look to employ suitably qualified and trained staff to assist with the workload.”
“The children we work with deserve better.”
With this feedback from members and as BSP’s continue to be a significant issue,
“The PSA directs members (Caseworkers) to not take primary responsibility in drafting and or implementing Behaviour Support Plans (BSP). In cases where a BSP is required, caseworkers are directed to email their manager caseworker.”