Improving outcomes for homeless children and families:What do front-line homelessness service staff need to know

Homelessness services are often the first to know when children are at risk. These services are traditionally adult, or parent focused, which means that many staff do not have the knowledge or experience to assess and meet the needs of children. In this climate, the No wrong door policy has been implemented to assist children that are homeless to receive a range services to ensure that they meet their developmental and growth targets. As most readers know, in 2008, with the aid of increased state and Commonwealth funds, Housing SA led the strategic reform of the homelessness sector in South Australia.