(1) In responding to a request for assistance or a report, the Director shall, prior to making an application to the Court for a care order, consider the appropriateness of using an alternative dispute resolution procedure that is designed to —
(a) ensure intervention so as to resolve a problem which may exist at an early stage;
(b) develop a care plan under section 26;
(c) reduce the likelihood for the making of a care application;
(d) reduce the incidence of breakdown in a child-parent relationship; and
(e) work towards the making of a decision that is in the best interest of the child concerned if an application for a care order is made.
(2) The participation by a child or a parent of the child in an alternative dispute resolution procedure is voluntary.
(3) A care plan developed under subsection (1)(b) during the course of alternative dispute resolution may be registered in the Court and may be used as evidence of an attempt to resolve the matter, without making an application for a care order.