Circles of care: the struggle to strengthen child developmental systems through the Pathways to Prevention Project

Abstract

The Pathways to Prevention project has been a groundbreaking Australian initiative that uses ecological theory to focus on place-based approaches to addressing disadvantage. It attempts to take into account the complex interwoven relationships of vulnerability and risk on the one hand, and resilience and protection on the other. This article by Freiberg, Homel, and Branch describes the further development of the intervention project in Inala, a suburb of Brisbane, Queensland. It specifically focuses on Circles of Care, a new approach to encouraging a closer synergy among families, schools and community agencies to facilitate positive developmental outcomes for children at risk. Grounded in developmental systems theory, the article addresses issues of very practical relevance to those delivering place-based interventions.