Some clients who leave the organisation may need to re-enter at some future stage. The process for re-entry to the organisation will be made as simple and as streamlined as possible.

The Farm in Galong ensures that a fair and non-discriminatory process is adopted when a past and potential client chooses to, or is required to, re-enter the service.

Clients will follow intake, assessment, referral and waiting list processes in order to re-enter services. Re-entry strategies include:

• Review previous files/records on re-entry – clients will not have to tell their history/story again if re-entry is within one year

• Make contact with any other organisations or stakeholders involved to identify the triggers for re-entry (item subject to client consent)

• Review the previous treatment plan to identify what strategies worked and those that didn’t work

• Where possible and appropriate, the same worker will be allocated to the client.

RE-ENTRY TIMEFRAME

If a past and potential client wishes to re-enter the organisation service or programs, the timeframe to assess their re-entry processes will be linked to their reason for exit.

The timeframe to re-enter services include:

»   When a client completes the program. Clients who successfully complete the organisation programs are reserved the right to return to the organisation for a period of six months after formally exiting from the service. Following this timeframe, the client file is closed and a new intake and assessment will need to be undertaken.

»   When a client exits by own choice. For a period of three months after formally exiting from the service, the client reserves the right to return to the organisation, without having to go through a full assessment process. Following this timeframe, the client file is closed and a new intake and assessment will need to be undertaken if the client requires to access the service at some point in the future. 

»   When a client exits by voluntary transfer to another agency. Staff members will continue to follow-up with the client and liaise with the new service provider for a  six week period to facilitate a smooth transition. After this timeframe, if the client wishes to re-enter the organisation, a new intake application will need to be completed.

»   Involuntary client exit. For a period of six weeks after formally being discharged from the service, the client reserves the right to return to the organisation; a new intake application and assessment will need to be completed.  

The decision to reintegrate a client who has been involuntary exited must be authorised by the CEO and will depend on:

• WHS issues for staff and other clients

• Severity of actions

• Needs of the client

• Other client health issues