A public health approach aims to prevent or reduce a particular illness or social problem in a population by identifying risk indicators. It is an approach that aims to prevent problems occurring in the first place, quickly respond to problems if they do occur, and minimise any long-term effects – and prevent reoccurrence.

All families play a vital role in providing children with a safe and supportive environment. As problematic family circumstances and environments could arise in any family at any time, supports and appropriate interventions should be widely available to all, with targeted back-ups for those requiring more intense support.