What is Accreditation and Quality Improvement?

Accreditation and quality improvement helps agencies look more closely at how they provide services and whether they meet current standards of good practice. Accreditation and quality improvement can help agencies recognise if there is a need for change or improvement in their services.

An accreditation and quality improvement program gives agencies a formal framework based on accepted standards for service delivery. Undergoing accreditation and quality improvement can help agencies to:

• Have a common understanding of good practice
• Work towards quality improvement
• Make systematic judgements about performance against standards
• Encourage greater scrutiny of outcomes and quality by service users.

Standards establish what is expected of service providers in relation to quality and effectiveness of services. Accreditation and quality improvement is the process of evaluating the service provider’s performance and certifying that standards have been met to the level required.

Why does Out-of-Home Care need Accreditation?

Children and young people who need to be placed in out-of-home care experience many different levels of service. Going into care can be an uncomfortable, scary or even traumatic time for children and young people, at a time when they are at their most vulnerable.

Some kids find out-of-home care improves their lives by helping them to escape abuse and neglect. Others find being in care a frustrating and tough time, making it difficult for them to get on with their lives.

The Office of the Children’s Guardian has set up an Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program which will encourage agencies to focus their work on meeting the needs of these children and young people.

Agencies will need to be accredited by the Children's Guardian or participating in our quality improvement program, in order to be able to provide out-of-home care.

 How does my Agency get Accreditation?

All the information and resources you will need to participate in the Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program can be found on the Application Package page of this website.

Together, your agency and the Office of the Children’s Guardian will work to provide out-of-home care that promotes the best interests and rights of children and young people.