ACTIVE family support is an intervention model aimed at identifying and supporting children at risk of being separated from their parents. It is a method for prevention of institutionalization. The model is also used to reintegrate children into their biological or extended families. According to Hope and Homes for Children (HHC), the word “ACTIVE” in English is an acronym that refers to the main principles of support:
Appropriate: Takes into account the local cultural context and the socio-political climate
Community: Works with formal (e.g. social workers) and informal actors
Targeted: Tailored to the specific needs of the family
Independence: Families work to become self-sufficient
Value: Proven, it offers a better value than traditional interventions such as institutionalization
Effective: Evidence suggests that this approach is able to keep children at risk of institutionalization in their families, while improving the well-being of the family