Today's Edition
Mohammad Ghazal (ABU DHABI)
With its deep-rooted tradition of placing family at the forefront and a pioneering approach to social services, Abu Dhabi’s “Unified Family File” is distinct from any other in the world.
Unlike many global systems that view individual beneficiaries in isolation, this system embraces a holistic view, considering the individual seeking services within their proper context. Abu Dhabi, which has been an exemplar of state-of-the-art, family-centred care, has been institutionalising family support and wellbeing through this unique, holistic approach.
In Abu Dhabi, the Family Care Authority (FCA), which is affiliated with the Department of Community Development (DCD), approaches each family as an interconnected unit to ensure that any assistance provided addresses the root causes of challenges, rather than the mere symptoms.
“Our model is unique at the global stage. When a person comes to the Family Care Authority, we perceive them not just as individuals, but as part of a family… Our approach is effective, holistic, and is one that takes all factors and needs into consideration, unlike other models that focus primarily on the beneficiary,” FCA Director-General Her Excellency Dr. Bushra Al Mulla told Aletihad on the sidelines of a joint media engagement event to discuss developments in the Abu Dhabi Family Wellbeing Strategy.
The Strategy was launched by the DCD with the aim of enhancing the overall quality of life within society, and was adopted by the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, headed by His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Executive Council.
“It is one of the strategic pillars in the UAE to focus on family cohesion. This is why we have the Unified Family File to make the lives of families easier,” added Al Mulla, who was one of 16 individuals in the world to receive the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship for Social Innovation in 2023.
Al Mulla won the award under the Public Social Intrapreneurs category, which honours leaders in the public sector who harness the power of social innovation and social entrepreneurship to create public good through policy, regulation, or public initiatives.
Addressing Root Causes, Not Symptoms
Leading the way in melding family values with innovative family support systems, the FCA has focused on addressing the deeper causes behind the challenges that families face.
“If an individual walks into FCA, we view that individual in the context of a family, because usually, the social challenges lie within the family itself… Thus, we open the file for the whole family and not the individual. We do a full assessment for the case and the whole family to know what is needed and what the real challenges are,” she said.
Sometimes, these problems are perceived as mere family disputes, she emphasised. “But in reality, there are much deeper issues, which could include a financial problem, a mental health issue, undiagnosed issues, or other challenges.”
“If we do not study the whole case with a holistic approach, we will be solving only the symptoms, not the real root causes,” she noted, adding that the FCA works in tandem with other concerned authorities to ensure the provision of excellent services for families.
“If, for example, a case is referred to another entity, we do not close the case; we continue following up. For us, the case stays open until we ensure that all interventions have been completed, and that the wellbeing of the families is fully achieved. This is what makes our system stand out on the global stage,” she clarified.
Grabbing World Attention
Abu Dhabi’s model has not only transformed the lives of families and enhanced their wellbeing, but has also caught the attention of the world, Al Mulla said.
“We are being approached by plenty of entities to share our knowledge and expertise… we are focusing now on strengthening local capacities, and then we are keen on sharing our knowledge and advanced expertise in this regard,” she added.
Empowered Staff
For FCA, investment in building the capacity of its staff and specialised personnel is a top priority to ensure provision of outstanding services.
“If you have a qualified social worker, or a qualified service provider, then you will ensure the quality of services is achieved. So, we are ensuring that all of our service providers and social workers are licensed social workers, and that all social workers are trained,” said Al Mulla.
Bedrock of Success
The FCA works closely with its partners to ensure the effectiveness and success of its mission to advance Abu Dhabi’s position as a global example of a place with a family support system that shines brightly at all levels.
According to Al Mulla, the FCA’s main stakeholders include other entities in the social sector, institutions outside the social sector in the government, as well as the private sector and the third sector.
“Our partnerships with various entities, especially the private sector providers, have been invaluable. Their support is key to our vision… a vision that aims to make sure that Abu Dhabi families are flourishing and happy,” Al Mulla concluded.
Since the announcement of its establishment under the leadership of H.E. Dr. Bushra Al Mulla, the FCA has replaced Dar Zayed for Family Care, and exercises the functions of the Abu Dhabi Police Social Support Centres, and the social function of the entity previously known Social Care and Minors’ Affairs Foundation. This consolidation brings together expertise, resources, and a unified vision to provide comprehensive support to families in Abu Dhabi, in accordance with the approved competencies and legislations of the Authority.
The Abu Dhabi government has assigned the FCA the responsibility of providing comprehensive and proactive support to Abu Dhabi’s families. With a steadfast commitment to confidentiality, the FCA cooperates with partners to provide integrated services, counselling and emergency assistance to families, the elderly, people of determination, women, children, youth, men, and other vulnerable groups. Beneficiaries and community members seeking support can reach out to the call centre at 800444.
