This document contains revised alternative care guidelines for Ethiopia. It discusses how development intervention has shifted from a needs based approach to a rights based approach. While this document points out that participation of children and community has been largely overlooked in the decision-making process, recent trends indicate that a system that supports social participation is a more sustainable means of structuring support.
The objective of the guidelines is to establish a regulatory instrument on childcare systems with a view to contribute toward the improvement of quality care provided by both government and non-profit organizations.
In determining alternative care placements, this document states that community based childcare organizations shall work with grassroots organizations to investigate alternative models for placements. Alternative care core values are: community participation; participation of the child; holistic approach; child-centered approach; mainstreaming disability and gender; program phase-out and sustainability; and protection and safety of the child.
The primary objective of guideline on reunification is to ensure that organizations implement a reunification/reintegration program as a primary component of alternative care services.
