A Model for coordination

This article argues that clear coordination structures are essential if collaboration around the complex needs of a small subcategory of seriously emotionally disturbed children and adolescents requiring multi-agency involvement is to be successful. A model of coordination which evolved out of a project conducted in the western suburbs of Melbourne during 1992-1993 is described. Although expensive to implement this model would be less costly than the current unsatisfactory situation where much time and effort is expended by a number of workers from a range of agencies, often for very little return.