5.2 Family-Centered-Services Approach
The Family Assessment response should embody the “Family-Centered Services” approach which is founded on the principle that the first and greatest investments, time and resources, should be made in the care and treatment of children in their own homes. This means that resources, which have traditionally been expended on one family member, are more wisely invested in treating and strengthening the entire family. The family-centered approach places greater responsibility on, and confidence in, families and local communities. Therefore, our foremost obligation is to provide families with the services and support necessary to preserve and strengthen the family and prevent out-of-home placement.
Throughout the Division’s involvement with a family, whether during the intake process or after a case has been opened for services, staff will be alert to any changes in the family circumstances that would create a concern for the safety of a child in their own home, which would necessitate a safety assessment or safety reassessment.
The Children’s Service Worker initiates the family-centered practice by:
- Establishing rapport with the family. Rapport begins with honesty of the worker and respect for the family. In addition to explaining that the worker is there to help the family help itself, the worker will also explain fully and openly, the purpose of the Division for contacting the family.
- The family assessment process should be fully explained. The Children’s Service Worker shall clarify his or her role as well as the expectations that exist for the family.
- Recognition is given to the fact that families are more likely to change when they are invested in a plan for change, rather than being asked to comply with the mandates of others.
- This process must focus on the family as a system, rather than on any individual within the family. Therefore, parents and children will be given the opportunity for full inclusion in all phases of the family assessment process.
- Full inclusion includes giving parents and children an equal and active voice in identifying the issues, which will result in safety and permanence.
Chapter Memoranda History: (prior to 1/31/07)
CS03-51, CD05-35, CD05-72, CD06-34