Inklings Program will prioritise infants in out of home care through new referral system

A new referral pathway has been established to ensure West Australian infants who are in the out of home care system receive intervention and care more rapidly. 

The Inklings Program, funded in Western Australia through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), is a popular program which supports infants aged 6-18 months showing early differences in their social interaction and communication development.

Delivered in partnership between the NDIS, Telethon Kids Institute, Child and Adolescent Health Service and WA Country Health Service, Inklings supports carers in recognising and responding to an infant’s unique needs.

Sessions use short videos to help carers recognise and interpret a baby’s unique communication behaviours and respond in a way that shows understanding of their needs.

There are no out-of-pocket expenses for eligible families participating in Inklings in Western Australia. Government insights indicate that there are more than 200 infants in care across the State’s metro, remote and regional areas who may benefit from the Inklings Program. 

“We are proud to announce this referral pathway to the Inklings Program to help foster and family carers better cater to the needs of those in their care,” WA Child Protection Minister Sabine Winton said. 

“On behalf of the Cook Government, I want to say a big thank you to Telethon Kids Institute for the Inklings Program and extending this opportunity to support foster and family carers looking after WA’s most vulnerable.”

WA Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said the Inklings program was a “fantastic support” for children showing early signs of social communication differences, one which the Government is pleased to provide.

“We know early intervention can make a world of difference in the trajectory of children experiencing developmental delays,” she added.

The new referral pathway has been announced in line with Foster and Family Carers Week, held from 29 July to 4 August.

To learn more visit inklings.org.au