This policy provides guidelines for CSWs to address reproductive health care such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy with minors/NMDs, including available resources and options for pregnant minors/NMDs.
This policy guide was updated from the 02/04/19 version, to include information and procedures regarding the expectant parent payment that will be available to pregnant minors and nonminor dependents (NMDs) three months prior to the expected due date, per Assembly Bill (AB) 153. This payment will be in addition to the infant supplement payment, which begins the month of birth.
POLICY
Reproductive and Sexual Health Care and Related Rights for Minors and NMDs
State law mandates social workers to inform a minor or NMD in foster care of their rights regarding sexual and reproductive health care to include as follows:
The right to receive medical services, including reproductive and sexual health care.The right to consent to, or decline, medical care (without need for consent from a parent, caregiver, guardian, social worker, probation officer, court, or authorized representative) for:The prevention or treatment of pregnancy, including contraception, at any age.Abortion, at any age.Diagnosis and treatment of sexual assault, at any age.The prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of STIs, at age twelve (12) and older. The right to access age-appropriate, medically accurate information about reproductive and sexual health care without discrimination or harassment, including but not limited to:The prevention of an unplanned pregnancy, including abstinence and contraception, at any age.Abortion care and other pregnancy services, at any age.The prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of STIs, including but not limited to, the availability of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, at age twelve (12) and older.Confidentiality Rights:
If the minor/NMD has the right to personally consent to medical services, such services shall be provided confidentially and maintained as confidential between the provider and the minor/NMD to the extent required by HIPAA. Disclosure of services may only be provided through written consent of the minor/NMD or through a court order.
When a minor/NMD has a right to consent, examinations and/ or treatment by a medical provider shall be private unless the minor/NMD specifically requests otherwise.
The right to be provided transportation to reproductive and sexual health-related services in a timely manner.
The right to obtain, possess and use contraception of his/ her choice, including condoms.
The right to storage space and to be free from unreasonable searches of his/ her belongings. Contraception cannot be taken away as part of a disciplinary measure or for religious beliefs, personal biases and/ or judgments of another individual.
The right to independently contact state agencies, including the Community Care Licensing Division of the California State Department of Social Services (CDSS) and the State Foster Care Ombudsperson, regarding violations of rights, to speak to representatives of these offices confidentially, and to be free from threats or punishment for making complaints.
Depending on the type of facility and age of the minor/NMD, to have personal rights posted and/ or explained in an age and developmentally appropriate manner, and provided to the minor/ NMD.
CSWs are permitted to distribute condoms to dependent DCFS minors/NMDs in foster care. CSWs should consult with the manager of their respective DCFS office on the availability of condoms for distribution to minors/NMDs and seek guidance from their assigned SCSW and PHN on how to provide an educational context for the minor/NMD receiving condoms. CSWs can also refer minors/NMDs to the condom project for free condoms.
DCFS and Department of Public Health (DPH) Public Health Nurses (PHNs) are available for consultation with the CSW, for direct consultation with the minors/NMD, and for joint response or collaborative planning regarding all reproductive health issues.
A minor/NMD's choice to continue or terminate her pregnancy is a very personal decision and the CSW must support the minor/NMD's decision without expressing personal bias or attempting to influence her decision. Minors/NMDs should be directed to the Planned Parenthood, a Los Angeles County Health Clinic or an equivalent local family planning clinic for assistance in pregnancy testing and counseling/ education regarding her options. CSWs will ensure that the local, family planning clinic the minor/NMD is referred to provides counseling/education for a full range of options. These options include parenting, adoption, and pregnancy termination. A minor/NMD should also be encouraged to seek out people who will support her in making a decision, such as her partner, family, friends, clergy, or a professional counselor.
Revealing pregnancy information in the absence of a minor/NMD’s written consent is a violation of their right to privacy. The father’s written consent is necessary before documenting in the father’s case file that they are possibly going to be a father. This does not apply when documenting all non-reproductive/routine medical information in the minor/NMD’s case file or on CWS/CMS, or when sharing medical information with health care providers when appropriate. Refer to ACIN No. I-73-16 for guidance regarding how to document minor and NMD parents in CWS/CMS.
Continuing the Pregnancy
If a minor/NMD becomes pregnant, they have the right to continue their pregnancy, regardless of their age, marital status, or financial situation. All minors/NMDs in care are eligible to receive Medi-Cal and financial support to provide for themselves and their children.
It is important that a pregnant minor/NMD visit a doctor for prenatal care, including:
Regular check-ups during pregnancy
Following guidelines for nutrition during pregnancy
Getting enough rest
Regular exercise
If a minor/NMD thinks they are pregnant, they should talk with their health care provider before taking any medications.
Safe Surrender
The CSW, and DPO if the minor/NMD receives dual supervision, must inform any minor/NMD of childbearing age of the Safe Haven law and provide them with the Safe Surrender Hotline number 877-BABY-SAFE. The law states that no parent/legal guardian who has custody of a minor child who is seventy-two (72) hours (three (3) days) old or younger may be prosecuted for child abandonment, if they voluntarily surrenders physical custody of the child to a designated employee at a public or private hospital emergency room. The law also allows for a fourteen (14) day “cooling off” period, during which the parent/legal guardian may return to reclaim the child.
Adoption
Adoption can be an alternative for a minor/NMD who does not feel prepared to raise a child but does not want to have an abortion. Adoption is a legal process, during which the minor/NMD gives up all rights and responsibilities as a parent. Adoption is permanent and cannot be reversed.
There are two methods for legal adoption in California:
Through a private or government agency, where the agency takes full responsibility for all legal matters involved
Independent adoption, where the parent locates an adoptive family on their own.
In both cases, the adopting family must be approved before the adoption process is final.
If the minor/NMD expresses an interest in adoption, CSWs should provide the minor/NMD with the DCFS Adoption Information/Intake number, (888) 811-1121 to seek assistance from an Adoption CSW to discuss adoption. CSWs should also provide the minor/NMD with their attorney's information so that they may get legal advice regarding adoption.
Safe Pregnancy and Healthy Baby
Expectant and Parenting Youth (EPY) Conference
An Expectant and Parenting Youth (EPY) Conference (formerly Pregnant and Parenting Teen (PPT) Conference) is a voluntary proactive tool intended to identify and discuss issues related to pregnancy and early stages of child rearing for expectant or parenting minors/NMDs, including fathers. EPY Conferences focus on planning for healthy parenting, identifying appropriate resources and services, and preparing for a successful transition to independence.
The Child Welfare Health Services Section, Expectant and Parenting Youth (EPY) Conference Facilitators help promote the EPP as appropriate during EPY Conferences. The EPY Conference Facilitators are available for any questions regarding EPP. These staff can be reached at mendeh@dcfs.lacounty.gov and melenaa@dcfs.lacounty.gov.
Collaborative Planning with a Public Health Nurse (PHN)
When a youth/NMD chooses to continue a pregnancy and to become a parent, upon written consent, the CSW and a Public Health Nurse (PHN) co-located in the CSW’s office will have a collaborative planning meeting with the minor/NMD. Before signing the written consent, the minor/NMD should be advised that if desired, they are able to consult with their attorney prior to signing any release of information. At this meeting, the minor/NMD’s needs will be assessed and interventions to ensure a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby will be offered. These interventions may include, but are not limited to:
A joint visit to the home, hospital, school, or office
Sending for medical records
Interpreting medical information
Referrals to appropriate community agencies
The goal of the collaborative planning meeting is to develop a plan that protects the minor/NMD and their child’s health and safety needs. During a CSW/PHN joint visit, the PHN will make skilled observations of the minor/NMD’s general health, nutritional, and developmental status through the use of the Home Visit Observations Attachment to the Home Visitation Guidelines. All health information will be entered into the minor/NMD’s Health and Education Passport.
When a home visit is indicated, the PHN and the CSW will meet at the minor/NMD’s placement to assess their health, safety, and health practices. During the joint visit, the PHN will:
Assist the CSW with the assessment of the home environment.
Identify actual and potential health needs of the minor/NMD and their child(ren) through observation and interviews.
Inform the CSW of any health and/or safety concerns. If the PHN raises concerns, the CSW shall employ a strengths-based approach to support the minor/NMD. The CSW shall ensure that the minor/NMD is referred to preventative services to address any concerns regarding the safety, health, or well-being of the child, and to help prevent, whenever, possible, the filing of a petition to declare a child a dependent of the juvenile court under WIC 300. The CSW shall ensure that the minor/NMD is provided access to services targeted at supporting and maintaining the parent-child bond and the minor/NMD’s ability to provide a permanent and safe home for the child.
Nurse Family Partnership (NFP) Program
A minor/NMD qualifies for the Nurse Family Partnership (NFP) program services if they meet all of the following criteria:
Is receiving DCFS services
Is pregnant for the first time
Is no more than twenty-four (24) weeks pregnant
Agrees to NFP program services
The program provides home visiting services, beginning during the pregnancy and extending through the child’s first two (2) years of life. The PHNs who visit the minor/NMD’s home will focus on the new parent’s health and on their development as a parent.
If NFP is not an option, consider other home visitation resources, such as Welcome Baby, Partnerships for Families and Early Intervention programs, such as Early Head Start. The Los Angeles County Perinatal and Early Childhood Home Visitation Consortiums e-directory (Home Visiting E-Directory) can be utilized to find appropriate programs.
Expectant Parent Payment (EPP)
Effective January 1, 2022, WIC 11465(e) authorizes a payment to be made directly to an expectant minor or NMD, approximately three (3) months prior to the minor/NMD’s due date. Prior to automation, this payment will be issued as a lump sum of $2,700; once automation has been finalized, an amount equivalent to the home-based foster care infant supplement will be paid monthly for the final three (3) months of a minor/NMD’s pregnancy. The payment will be the same regardless of placement type, and it will be paid directly to the expectant minor/NMD.
This expectant parent payment is available to meet the specialized needs of the pregnant minor/NMD, as well as prepare for the needs of the infant. Preparing for the birth of a newborn is expensive. Some potential expenses this payment could be used for are included below. Listed expenses are only examples, the expectant minor/NMD that receives the payment is not required to submit any accounting or receipts to show how the funds are utilized. All items bought with these funds are the property of the minor/NMD and go with them if/when they change facilities or age out.
Example uses of the payment include, but are not limited to:
Cribs, rocking chairs, changing tables or other infant related furniture.
Car seats, strollers, or infant carriers.
Clothes for the infant or maternity clothes for the pregnant minor/NMD.
Nursing bras, breast pumps, formula or other infant feeding necessities.
Diapers, pacifiers, bibs, and other miscellaneous infant items.
Funds may also be used for a birth preparation or parenting class.
CSWs need to discuss the availability of EPP funds with the pregnant minors/NMDs.
The EPP takes the place of the Early Infant Supplement (EIS) financial benefit that was previously provided to DCFS pregnant minor/NMD in placement in the 7th, 8th, and 9th months of pregnancy.
To implement the EPP benefit, CSWs are to obtain and submit a copy of an official medical record given directly to the pregnant minor/NMD from a qualified medical provider, containing both verification of pregnancy and the Expected Delivery Date. A determination of the 7th, 8th, or 9th month of pregnancy for the purpose of implementing the EPP payment(s) will be based on the Expected Delivery Date provided in the medical record. Minors/NMDs are eligible for the entire lump sum payment even if the EPP application is submitted after the 7th month of pregnancy.
If the pregnant minor/NMD does not have an official medical record from their health care provider containing the required information, the CSW may request a verification of pregnancy letter from the medical provider on formal letterhead with an Expected Delivery Date. Any verification and documentation procedure must abide by applicable confidentiality laws.
Eligible minors/NMDs must be in formal placement. Expectant parent payments are available to pregnant minors/NMDs who receive AFDC-FC or ARC payments, including those placed in Short Term Residential Therapeutic Placements (STRTPs), Supervised Independent Living Placements (SILPs), Transitional Housing Placements (THPP) or home-based foster care. Expectant parent payments are not available for minors/NMDs in the Adoption Assistance Program and the Kinship Guardianship Assistance Payment Program. Pregnant minors/NMDs residing in the home of one or both parents (HOP) are not eligible to receive EPP payments. However, they are eligible to receive financial assistance from the Department of Public Social Services (DPSS).The address provided on the EPP request must match the pregnant minor/NMD’s placement address as reflected in CWS/CMS. A verification of pregnancy letter from a qualified medical provider, reflecting the Expected Delivery Date, must be submitted as a part of the application.
Pregnant minors/NMDs residing in the home of one or both parents (HOP) are not eligible to receive EPP payments. However, they are eligible to receive financial assistance from the Department of Public Social Services (DPSS).
Infant Supplement
The infant supplement begins the month that the infant is born and continues as long as the non-dependent infant continues to reside with the minor/NMD parent in an eligible placement. As soon as the infant is born and is under the care of the now parenting minor/NMD, the CSW must initiate an Automated DCFS 280 request to start the official Infant Supplement payment of $900 per month, or $1,379 per month for group home/STRTP placements, and to begin Medi-Cal coverage for the infant.
Termination of Pregnancy
If a minor/NMD at any age does not want to continue a pregnancy, they have the legal right to terminate it. If the minor/NMD is under DCFS supervision, ensure that the minor/NMD's transportation needs are met, including transporting their, if necessary. No one has the legal right to force a minor/NMD to terminate or choose not to terminate the pregnancy, regardless of the minor/NMD’s age. Termination of pregnancy services are time sensitive. If the minor/ NMD's right to these services are being violated, the CSW shall ensure that the minor/NMD is able to obtain the services in a timely manner. For example, if a minor/NMD wishes to terminate their pregnancy and they are having trouble finding a medical provider who can assist them promptly, or if the minor/NMD needs transportation to their medical appointment and their housing provider/Resource Parent is unable to assist them, the CSW shall assist the minor/NMD to help remove these barriers to accessing services.
Family planning clinic staff will answer questions about types of abortions, fees, and services available. The cost of abortion is covered by Medi-Cal. Counseling for minors/NMDs considering abortion is available at the Planned Parenthood or a Los Angeles County Health Clinic.
Documentation of Pregnancy and Parenting in CWS/CMS for Minors/NMDs
Under the requirements of SB 794, data regarding pregnancy must be collected and reported. Pregnancy is a health condition which may be reported by the minor/NMD, their caregiver or physician. Due to the confidential nature of this information, conversations with minor/NMD about pregnancy-related topics should be handled with sensitivity and care to eliminate coercion regarding the disclosure of pregnancy status. Any disclosure regarding pregnancy requires the minor/NMD's written consent
There are two (2) ways to capture pregnancy information in CWS/CMS. Pregnancy information may be entered under the Observed Condition tab or under the Diagnosed Condition tab. The correct way to enter this data depends on whether the minor/NMD has consented to the release of information.
Discussions related to the minor/NMD's reproductive rights and pregnancy may also be documented in the CWS/CMS Case Notes (i.e. TItle XXs) with suggested language as follows:
The CSW and the minor/NMD discussed topics of reproductive health.
The CSW provided resources regarding reproductive health.
The CSW offered to remove any barriers the minor/NMD may experience accessing reproductive health.
Under the requirements of SB 528, complete and accurate data on parenting minor and NMD parents must be collected. The reported data must also include the parenting minor/NMD's county, age, ethnic group, placement type, time in care, number of children they have, and whether the children are court dependents.
Entering Pregnancy Information as an Observed Condition
When a CSW first learns that a minor/NMD is pregnant, the information should be entered into CWS/CMS via the Observed Condition tab. This will ensure that the information is not automatically populated on the Helath and Education Passport (HEP) and will keep the information private from caregivers and others such as school personnel, counselors, mentors and Foster Youth Services providers that receive copies of a minor/NMD's HEP. This information may not be relevant to the provisions of some types of services and supports and therfore need not be included in the HEP. Additionally, the minor/NMD should be consulted prior to the disclosure of any pregnancy-related information.
Entering Pregnancy Information as a Diagnosed Condition
Entering the pregnancy as a diagnosed condition is necessary when the minor/NMD has been hospitalized as a result of the pregnancy. If a minor or NMD has been hospitalized for a health issue related to the pregnancy, such as a pregnancy complication or due to giving birth to a child, the pregnancy must be recorded as a diagnosed condition in order to allow for entering the hospitalization information. Pursuant to WIC section 16010(a), any hospitalization must be recorded in a manner in which the information would be entered into the minor/NMD's HEP.
If a minor/NMD is hospitalized for a pregnancy related issue, please follow the instructions listed under Assisting a Pregnant Minor/NMD that shows how to properly capture this information. Whenever possible, minors/NMDs should be consulted prior to the disclosure of any pregnancy-related information, including that of pregnancy related hospitalizations.
Entering Parenting Information in CWS/CMS for Minors/NMDs
The All County Information Notice (ACIN) I-73-16, provides information on the state-required guidelines for entering parenting information into CWS/CMS. Prior to release ACIN I-73-16, guidelines had been established via ACIN I-60-15 to collect data on parenting minors/NMDs via CWS/CMS data entry. An FYI was issued (FYI 16-01) on how to document the state-required information into CSW/CMS and an update to FYI 16-01 was released via FYI 16-19.
Cross Reporting to Law Enforcement
CSWs should make a report to law enforcement in cases where the age difference is as described below, and any time there is a reasonable suspicion that the sexual activity was coerced or not voluntary (including sexual exploitation). In either case, the CSW must ensure that a child abuse report is made with DCFS and that a cross report is made to local law enforcement. In the absence of an emergency, prior to disclosure, the CSW must inform the minor that they will be disclosing this information and explain the reason for that disclosure.
Age Difference
Mandated reporters must report if they have a reasonable suspicion that:
A minor fourteen (14) or older engaged in sexual intercourse with a minor under age of fourteen (14).
A minor fourteen (14) or fifteen (15) engaged in sexual intercourse with someone twenty-one (21) or older.
Sexual Activity that is Coerced or Not Voluntary
Mandated reporters must report if they have a reasonable suspicion that intercourse with a minor was coerced, or in any other way not voluntary. As one example, sexual activity is not voluntary when the victim is unconscious or so intoxicated that they cannot resist. See Below, and see Penal Code sections 261 and 11165.1, for more examples.
Sexual Activity Involving Sexual Exploitation or Trafficking
Mandated reporters must report if they have a reasonable suspicion that a minor has been sexually trafficked or is being sexually exploited. Child pornography is sexual exploitation, as is the provision of food, shelter, or payment to a child in exchange for any sexual act described in Penal Code section 11165.1. See Penal Code section 11165.1 for more examples.
CSWs should make a report to law enforcement in cases where the minor reports that the sexual activity occurred under any circumstance where there is a reasonable suspicion that the sexual activity was coerced or in any way not voluntary These include, but are not limited to:
While the minor was unconscious, intoxicated or lacked the mental, developmental or physical capacity to give legal consent; or
Was accomplished against the minor's will by means of force, violence or fear of immediate bodily injury; or
The minor is a victim of commercial sexual exploitation, or other sexual exploitation.
Prevention of Unintended Pregnancy for Minors and NMDs
CSW Responsibilities
Provide a copy of the Foster Youth Bill of Rights upon entry into foster care and at least once every six (6) months at the time of scheduled contact.
Inform the minor/NMD, in an age appropriate manner, of their rights to consent at any age to pregnancy-related care, including contraception, abortion, and prenatal care.
Reproductive and sexual health care.
Unplanned pregnancy prevention, including abstinence, and use of birth control.
Options regarding pregnancy, including abortion.
Prevention and treatment of STIs.
Inform the minor/NMD, in an age appropriate manner, of their rights to consent at any age to pregnancy-related care, including contraception, abortion, and prenatal care.
Inform the minor/NMDof their right to consent at age 12 or older to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of STIs.
Inform the minor/NMD about their confidentiality rights regarding medical services and seek the youth's and NMD's written consent prior to any disclosure of their sexual or reproductive health information. Also, inform the minor/NMD of their right to withhold consent to such disclosure(s.)
Ensure the minor/NMD is up-to-date on their annual medical appointments.
Ask the the minor/NMD if they are facing any barriers in accessing reproductive and sexual health care services or treatment, and ensure any barriers are addressed in a timely manner.
Personal biases and/ or religious beliefes will not be imposed upon the minor/NMD.
Provide pregnant minor/ NMD with Reproductive Health and Parenting Resources for Teens in LA County. The resources listed in this document are not exhaustive, but will serve as a starting point for locating resources appropriate for the individual youth/NMD.
Document in the Case Plan any measures taken towards ensuring that items #1 through #7 were completed. All documentation needs to comply with existing confidentiality laws.
Assisting a Pregnant Minor/NMD
CSW Responsibilities
Upon a minor/NMD’s disclosure they are pregnant:
With the minor/NMD's written consent, immediately inform PHN about the pregnant minor/NMD.
Document in the Health Notebook the pregnancy as an observed condign.
To add a Diagnosed Condition, click the "+" in the Diagnosed Condition grid to create a new row, and complete all known and mandatory fields.
Under Condition, select Physical Health from the Category dropdown list and Pregnant from the Health Problem drop down list.
Add a Health Problem Description.
Click on the Hospitalization page tab.
To add a Hospitalization, click the "+" in the Hospitalizations grid to create a new row.
You will be prompted to Select Client Condition.
Select the applicable Client Condition (Pregnant) from the Client Condition list.
Click "Ok".
Complete all known and mandatory fields.
In the Hospitalization Comments, include information about the reason for the hospitalization. Examples may include severe morning sickness, premature labor, high blood pressure, or facts of the birthing including, but not limited tom if the youth gave birth via a caesarean section, any birthing complications and information about the baby (e.g. names, weight, length, date of birth, apgars, etc.), etc.
Advise the minor/NMD of the family planning options available to them, including:
Terminating the pregnancy
Continuing the pregnancy and relinquishing the baby for adoption
Continuing the pregnancy and keeping the baby
Reassure the minor/NMD that they will receive CSW support no matter their choice.
If the minor/NMD is under DCFS supervision, ensure that the minor/NMD's transportation needs are met, including transporting them, if necessary. The CSW does not have to transport the minor/NMD; however, the CSW is responsible for ensuring transportation needs are met.
Inform the minor/NMD of their right to confidentiality.
If a DCFS-supervised minor/NMD decides to continue their pregnancy, inform them of the Nurse Family Partnership (NFP) program.
If they wish to participate and qualify, refer them for the services.
Offer the minor/NMD an EPY Conference to assist with planning for healthy parenting, identifying resources and preparing for a successful transition to independence as a young parent.
If the minor/NMD agrees, submit the DCFS 174 requesting the EPY Conference via the referral portal to "PPT/EPY."
Document on the "Observed Condition" tab in CWS/CMS that:
Referrals were provided to the minor/NMD
The options for managing the pregnancy (family planning) were discussed prior to promoting the referral to a case, closing the referral, or on the open case.
Document in the Health Notebook information regarding the pregnancy and related medical treatment, including the name, address, and phone number of the physician providing prenatal care.
If a Child and Family Team (CFT) meeting is held, advise the minor/NMD that their pregnancy will not be revealed during the CFT unless they authorize it.
If a minor/NMD’s open referral is promoted to a case, incorporate financial and medical assistance, as well as pregnant teen programs, into the case plan. Follow the procedures set forth in For a Pregnant Youth under DCFS Supervision.
If a placement decision must be made for a minor/NMD, their prenatal needs must be considered along with the permanency needs of their family unit, if the youth chooses to become a parent.
The minor/NMD should be advised that not revealing her pregnancy status may lead to a placement move.
Discuss with the minor/NMD about the importance of informing the Resource Parent that they are pregnant so that they can help support them. If the minor/NMD declines to disclose their pregnancy to the Resource Parent, explore with the minor/NMD why they do not feel comfortable.
Obtain the required verification and refer the pregnant minor/NMD for the Expectant Parent Payment.
At each subsequent home visit:
Determine whether the minor/NMD and their family are using the referred resources.
Document that information in the Contact Notebook.
If the minor/NMD provides written consent and it has not been already completed, arrange for a collaborative planning meeting with a PHN.
Encourage the minor/NMD, if appropriate, to discuss their options with their parent(s)/legal guardian(s), attorney, or other trusted adult.
Reassure the minor/NMD that they will receive your support no matter what choice they make.
Ensure that the minor/NMD’s decision to terminate the pregnancy is based on their knowledge of the available options.
Document the conversation to terminate the pregnancy in the Contact Notebook.
Refer the minor/NMD to Planned Parenthood or a Los Angeles County Health Clinic to further discuss and arrange for pregnancy termination services.
If the minor/NMD or Resource Parent requests it:
Assist them in making adequate arrangements for the abortion procedure and adequate recovery time.
Transport them to and from the location where the abortion procedure will occur.
Document information regarding the pregnancy and related medical treatment as well as conversations with the minor/NMD on the "Observed Condition" tab in CWS/CMS. Include the name, address and phone number of the treating physician.
Provide post termination supportive services as needed, and ensure the minor/NMD’s attendance at follow-up medical appointments.
Provide resources to the minor/NMD for family planning counseling and/ or sexually transmitted infection (STIs).
If the minor/NMD provides written consent and it has not been already completed, arrange for a collaborative planning meeting with a PHN.
Inform the minor/NMD that adoption is a legal process, during which they give up all rights and responsibilities as a parent, and that once adoption procedures are completed, the decision is permanent and cannot be reversed.
If the minor/NMD expresses interest regarding adoption, with the minor/NMD's consent, request assistance from a Resource Family Support Permanency Division CSW to engage the minor/NMD in a discussion of their feelings about going through pregnancy, the emotional impacts of adoption, adoption procedures, and other related questions for the minor/NMD to consider in making their decision. See Discussion Questions for Pregnant Youth for additional guidance. Document this conversation in the Contact Notebook.
Inform the minor/NMD that there are two methods for legal adoption in California.
Explain to the minor/NMD that they must discuss with their attorney, the legal implications of adoption. Provide the minor/NMD with their attorney's name and number of the main CLC number.
Assist the minor/NMD in contacting the father and obtaining his consent for the adoption.
If the baby’s father is known, the father is required to give consent to the adoption.
Create a Client Notebook for the infant.
If available, include the name, address, and phone number of the biological father in the infant’s Client Notebook.
Provide the minor/NMD with the DCFS Adoption Information and Applicant Intake toll-free number (888) 811-1121.
Only the infant’s parents may decide to relinquish the infant and to call the Adoption Information and Applicant Intake section.
Consult with PHN to obtain the guidelines for appropriate prenatal care from the College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and to ensure that the minor/NMD receives appropriate prenatal care.
If the expectant parent is a nonminor dependent (NMD), they must sign a DCFS 565, Authorization for Disclosure of Medical Information for Participation in the Nurse Family Partnership Program.
Give the completed form(s) to the PHN to submit. The NFP Program will send an enrollment status letter and quarterly updates to the PHN.
Refer the minor/NMD and her caregiver to community resources, as needed or requested.
If the minor/NMD provides written consent and it has not been already completed, arrange for a collaborative planning meeting with a PHN.
Engage the minor/NMD in a discussion of her feelings about going through pregnancy, the responsibilities of parenting, planning for education and finances, and other related questions for the youth/NMD to consider in making her decision. See Discussion Questions for Pregnant Youth for additional guidance. Document this conversation in the Contact Notebook.
If not already offered and the minor/NMD agrees, refer the family for an EPY Conference .
Assess the minor/NMD’s need for health, financial, placement/housing, and education resources.
Document assessments in CWS/CMS Contact Notebook with the minor/NMD's consent
Document assessments on the "Observed Condition" tab of CWS/CMS when the minor/NMD's consent has not been given.
Once the minor/NMD decides to keep the baby, talk to them about the Nurse Family Partnership (NFP) Program. If they agree to participate and qualify for the program:
Complete the NFP Referral Form.
If the expectant parent is a nonminor dependent, she must sign a DCFS 565, Authorization for Disclosure of Medical Information for Participation in the Nurse Family Partnership Program.
Give the completed form(s) to the PHN to submit. The NFP Program will send an enrollment status letter and quarterly updates to the PHN.
Refer the minor/NMD and her caregiver to community resources, as needed or requested.
If the minor/NMD resides with a parent or adult relative who is receiving CalWORKS, refer them and the parent/relative to the Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) to determine the minor/NMD’s eligibility for the Cal-Learn.
Consult with the PHN to obtain the guidelines for appropriate prenatal care from the College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and to ensure that the youth/NMD receives appropriate prenatal care.
Consult with the minor/NMD about identifying and contacting the father. If appropriate attempt to identify and locate the biological father. If identified, ensure that he is added to the family in the Client Notebook.
With the pregnant minor/NMD’s consent, and if the biological father is willing, initiate face-to-face contact with them.
Document the contact or attempted contact in the Contact Notebook.
If the father is a DCFS-Supervisedminor/NMD, provide them with referrals to community-based programs such as AFLP. If the father is a probation youth, provide referrals via the Deputy Probation Officer (DPO).
If the minor/NMD is reluctant to disclose their pregnancy to their out-of-home caregiver, discuss with the minor/NMD about the importance of informing the Resource Parent that they are pregnant so that they can help support them. If the minor/NMD declines to disclose their pregnancy to the Resource Parent explore with the minor/NMD why they do not feel comfortable, while reassuring the minor/NMD that their decision to keep this information confidential will be respected.
Refer the minor/NMD to EPP.
Following the child's birth, ensure a referral is made for an Infant Supplement. The minor/NMD is eligible for this funding for their child until their case closes.
Following the child's birth document parenting information into CWS/CMS utilizing the instructions in ACIN I-73-16.
PHN Responsibilities
Only after obtaining the minor/NMD's written consent document the pregnant minor/NMD referral in the CWS/CMS on the Special Projects page as follows:
Pregnant Youth – Referred to the NFP Program
Pregnant Youth – Status of referral to the NFP Program
Client accepted into NFP
Client was not accepted into NFP
Did not meet intake criteria
Refused
No NFP capacity in geographical area
Pregnant Youth – Not referred to the NFP Program
Does not meet eligibility criteria
Referred to Prenatal Care provider (list provider name)
Youth declined
Referred to other home visiting program (list program name)
Include the date when the action was taken or the notification was received on the Special Projects Page.
List the provider’s name in the Comment section.
Expectant Parent Payment (EPP) During a Minor's Pregnancy and Infant Supplement Following the Birth of a Child
CSW Responsibilities
Discuss with the pregnant minor/NMD in placement the availability of EPP and the purpose of the funds, namely to assist the minor/NMD in preparing for the birth of the infant and to promote the purchase of necessary items for the arrival of the soon-to-be-born infant.
Obtain an official medical record from the pregnant minor/NMD, containing both verification of pregnancy and the Expected Delivery Date.
If such official medical record is not available, obtain the pregnant minor/NMD’s signature on the DCFS 6119, DCFS EPP Health Care Provider Request authorizing the health care provider to disclose the youth/NMD’s pregnancy and Expected Delivery Date.
Submit the DCFS 6119, DCFS EPP Health Care Provider Request signed by the minor/NMD authorizing the health care provider to disclose the minor/NMD’s pregnancy and Expected Delivery Date to the health care provider via mail, email or fax.
Complete the DCFS 5540, Special Payment Authorization/Request with a request to implement three (3) months of EPP payments at $900 each, for a total of $2,700. Complete all yellow- highlighted mandatory fields (refer to attached SAMPLE) and attach an official medical record containing verification of pregnancy and the Expected Delivery Date, or if unavailable, the completed DCFS 6119, DCFS EPP Health Care Provider Request, as well as the verification letter from the health care provider, and the History of Child Placements Report from CWS/CMS. Obtain approval of the DCFS 5540 from SCSW, ARA, and RA.
Submission of EPP payment requests will only be possible at the minor/NMD’s 7th month of pregnancy or beyond via the DCFS 5540.
Scan and email the approved DCFS 5540, the official medical record containing verification of pregnancy and the Expected Delivery Date, and the History of Child Placements Report from CWS/CMS to the DCFS Special Payments Section In-box: SpecialPaymentRequests@dcfs.lacounty.gov.
If the minor/NMD’s situation changes, (i.e., if the minor/NMD is no longer pregnant by the 7th month of pregnancy, no longer a dependent, or if there is a change in the minor/NMD’s address), notify the DCFS Special Payments Section in a timely manner by sending an email to the DCFS Special Payments In-box: SpecialPaymentRequests@dcfs.lacounty.gov.
As soon as the infant is born and under the care of the now parenting minor/NMD, initiate an Automated DCFS 280 request to start the official Infant Supplement payment of $900 per month or $1379 per month for group home/STRTP placements, and to begin Medi-Cal coverage for the infant.
SCSW Responsibilities
Review the official medical record or verification letter with the Expected Delivery Date for accuracy of the DCFS 5540, based on the minor/NMD’s Expected Delivery Date.
If accurate, approve the DCFS 5540 and forward it to the ARA and RA for review and approval.
If the case is in the process of being transferred to another CSW, or in the absence of the CSW, if the youth’s situation changes, (i.e., if the minor/NMD is no longer pregnant by the 7th month of pregnancy, no longer a dependent, or if there is a change in the minor/NMD’s address) notify the Special Payment Section by sending a notification email to SpecialPaymentRequests@dcfs.lacounty.gov
All County Letter (ACL) 14-38 (June 16, 2014) – Summarizes the requirements as outlined in Senate Bill (SB) 528 regarding the rights of foster children, ages 12 and older, and NMDs in out-of-home care. SB 25 permits a social worker to provide dependent children and NMDs with age-appropriate, medically accurate information about sexual development, reproductive health, and prevention of unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections on an ongoing basis.
ACL 16-31 (April 22, 2016) - States that caregivers to use the reasonable and prudent standard, and defines the reasonable and prudent parent standard under federal law.
ACL 18-61 (June 20, 2018) – Authorizes social workers to inform a youth or NMD in foster care, beginning at age ten (10), of his/her rights regarding sexual and reproductive health care.
Civil Code (CIV) Section 56.103 – Allows CSWs to receive Protected Health Information (PHI) related to service coordination, delivery, and treatment for foster youth.
Family Code (FAM) Section 6925 – A minor may consent to medical care related to prevention or treatment of pregnancy, except sterilization. A minor may receive birth control without parental consent.
FAM Section 6926 – A minor who is 12 years of age or older may consent to medical care related to the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of a sexually transmitted disease.
FAM Section 6928 - A minor who is alleged to have been sexually assaulted may consent to medical care related to the diagnosis and treatment of the condition, and the collection of medical evidence with regard to the alleged sexual assault.
Welfare and Institutions Code (WIC) 369 – If a dependent child is 12 years of age or older, his or her social worker is authorized to inform the child of his or her right as a minor to consent to and receive those health services, as necessary. Social workers are authorized to provide dependent children access to age-appropriate, medically accurate information about sexual development, reproductive health, and prevention of unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections.
Welfare and Institutions Code (WIC) 16521.5 - States in part that adolescents, including NMDs, are to receive age-appropriate pregnancy prevention information to the extent state and county resources are provided.
A non-specific file number generated by the Emergency Response Command Post (ERCP) identifying a placement case that is transferred from ERCP directly to a regional Family Maintenance and Reunification (FM&R) or generic (G) file.
Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health's (DMH) 24 hour, 7 (seven) day a week hotline: Emergency psychiatric services are coordinated through ACCESS. ACCESS offers information regarding all types of mental health services available in Los Angeles County. CSWs may request a joint response with FRO by contacting ACCESS at (800) 854-7771.
The term includes physical injury or death inflicted upon a child by another person by other than accidental means, sexual abuse as defined in Section 11165.1, neglect as defined in Section 11165.2, unlawful corporal punishment or injury as defined in Section 11165.4, or the willful harming or injuring of a child or the endangering of the person or health of a child, as defined in Section 11165.3, where the person responsible for the child's welfare is a licensee, administrator, or employee of any facility licensed to care for children, or an administrator or employee of a public or private school or other institution or agency. 'Abuse or neglect in out-of-home care' does not include an injury caused by reasonable and necessary force used by a peace officer acting within the course and scope of his or her employment as a peace officer.
The team is made up of former RUM (Resource Utilization Management) staff who have experience in finding placement for high risk/needs children. APT Specialist CSWs can assist Regional CSWs expedite the process in finding placement/replacement after hours and/or when all other efforts have been unsuccessful.
Active investigation means the activities of an agency in response to a report of known or suspected child abuse. For purposes of reporting information to the Child Abuse Central Index, the activities shall include, at a minimum: assessing the nature and seriousness of the known or suspected abuse; conducting interviews of the victim(s) and any known suspect(s) and witness(es) when appropriate and/or available; gathering and preserving evidence; determining whether the incident is substantiated, inconclusive, or unfounded; and preparing a report that will be retained in the files of the investigating agency.
A mandatory statewide program that provides financial support to families in order to facilitate the adoption of children who would otherwise be in long-term foster care. The intent of this program is to remove limited financial resources as a barrier to adoption.
State licensed adoption practitioners who are authorized to help the adopting family in obtaining consents from birth parents in non-relative independent adoption.
An order/decision which is contrary to a DCFS recommendation and which DCFS believes, if carried out, will jeopardize the safety of a child; and an order/decision which adversely affects the administrative and/or operational functioning of DCFS. This includes, but is not limited to, orders, which are contrary to DCFS policy and/or state or federal regulations; and/or, penalizes DCFS for the actions or inaction of a CSW and/or DCFS.
CSW is requesting a ruling on the warrant on a weekend, holiday, or during non-court hours. (Same as expedited but the matter cannot wait until the next court day for a ruling.)
The adoption of a child in which DCFS is a party to or joins in the petition for adoption. DCFS has custody of the child and approved the applicant assessment (adoption home study).
Foster care financial assistance paid on behalf of children in out-of-home placement who meet the eligibility requirements specified in applicable state and federal regulations and laws. The program is administered by DCFS.
An identified or unidentified man who: could be or claims to be the father of the child; or is claimed by the birth mother to be the child’s father; or is identified on the child’s birth certificate prior to January 1, 1997 and does not meet the definition of a presumed father.
Benefits equal to the rate that a Regional Center vendorized home receives for a child that requires the same level of care. These rates are established by the California Department of Development Services and only available for the foster care and Adoption Assistance Benefits (AAP) set prior to the establishment of the dual agency rate.
A hearing in which the court has ordered all affiliated parties to appear to address a matter before the court.
Appellate review refers to the power of a higher court to examine the decision or order of a lower court for errors. Appellate procedure consists of the rules and practices by which appellate courts review trial court judgments. Appellate review performs several functions, including: the correction of errors committed by the trial court, development of the law and precedent to be followed and anticipated in future disputes, and the pursuit of justice.
This is the term used for an agency adoption to determine AAP eligibility.
An assessment usually conducted by a child welfare of adoption agency of the suitability of a prospective adopting family prior to an adoptive placement.
A motion for rehearing or reconsideration seeking to alter or amend a judgment or order.
A family participating in DPSS CalWORKs
When a report has been made about a child alleging abuse and/or neglect and the child's sibling(s) are also at risk of abuse and/or neglect.
A foster parent, relative or nonrelative extended family member (NREFM) who has applied to adopt the child residing in his or her care. S/he is considered to be "attached" to the child because of an existing relationship.
Disease-carrying microorganisms that may be present in human blood. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B and C virus (HBV and HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Depending on the disease, they may be transmitted by direct skin contact to blood, semen, and vaginal secretions. Feces, urine, vomit, sputum, and nasal secretions may be infectious only if they also contain blood.
A redeemable certificate used as a substitute for currency. Transit companies other than the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) issue bus passes.
A permit or authorization to ride at will, without charge. Passes are valid for the current month. Transit companies other than the MTA issue bus passes.
A piece of metal used as a substitute for currency.
California's food stamp program
California Statewide Automated Welfare System. The California Statewide Automated Welfare System (CalSAWS) Project and Consortium is the automated welfare business process in California which will serve all 58 California counties by 2023. The implementation of CalSAWS will merge California’s most recent three (3) county-level consortia welfare systems and will support six (6) core programs: California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs), Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) known as CalFresh in California, Medi-Cal, Foster Care, Refugee Assistance, and County Medical Services. It encompasses the following functions: eligibility determination, benefit computation, benefit delivery, case management and information management. CalSAWS is replacing the LEADER Replacement System (LRS), which replaced LEADER (Los Angeles Eligibility, Automated Determination, Evaluation, and Reporting) and sixteen (16) other legacy systems in 2016.
A system to determine if the subject of an inquiry by DCFS, law enforcement, the District Attorney or any other appropriate inquiring agency possesses a criminal record. DCFS may only request a CLETS clearance when related to child protective services issues.
California Regional Centers are nonprofit private corporations that contract with the State Department of Developmental Services (DDS) to provide or coordinate services and supports for individuals with developmental disabilities.
CalWORKs is a welfare program that gives cash aid and services to eligible needy California families. The program serves all 58 counties in the state and is operated locally by county welfare departments. If a family has little or no cash and needs housing, food, utilities, clothing or medical care, they may be eligible to receive immediate short-term help. Families that apply and qualify for ongoing assistance receive money each month to help pay for housing, food and other necessary expenses.
The child's parent has been incarcerated, hospitalized or institutionalized and cannot arrange for the care of the child; parent's whereabouts are unknown or the custodian with whom the child has been left is unable or unwilling to provide care and support for the child.
Parent or guardian's mental illness, developmental disability or substance abuse. The child's parent or guardian is unable to provide adequate care for the child due to the.
The non-accidental commission of injuries against a person. In the case of a child, the term refers specifically to the non-accidental commission of injuries against the child by or allowed by a parent(s)/guardian(s) or other person(s). The term also includes emotional, physical, severe physical, and sexual abuse as defined in CDSS MPP Section 31-002(c)(9)(D).
The CACI is a system that allows Children's Social Workers to access in written form to any child abuse records of individuals through the Department of Justice (DOJ) listing names and other identifying information compiled from child abuse reports submitted to DOJ by mandated child abuse reporting agencies which maintain information regarding allegations of abuse and/or neglect. This is primarily utilized to evaluate relative and nonrelative extended family members as prospective caregivers.
California’s version of the federal health care program called Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT). It provides comprehensive medical, mental health and dental diagnostic and treatment services for all Medi-Cal eligible persons aged newborn to 21 years who request them. States are required to inform the families of eligible children about CHDP; assist with referral and transportation to providers; and, follow-up to ensure that necessary diagnostic and treatment services are provided.
Includes the intentional touching of the genitals or intimate parts or the clothing covering them, of a child, or of the perpetrator by a child, for purposes of sexual arousal or gratification. This does not include acts which are reasonably construed to be normal caretaker responsibilities, demonstrations of affection for the child, or acts performed for a valid medical purpose.
A general term for a device that can be installed in a vehicle and is designed to restrain, seat, or position children who weigh 50 pounds or less.
A group of individuals, as identified by the family, and convened by DCFS, who are engaged through a variety of team-based processes to identify the strengths and needs of the child or youth and his or her family, and to help achieve positive outcomes for safety, permanency, and well-being.
CFT Meetings are structured, guided discussions with the family, their natural supports and other team members. The meetings are designed to specifically address the family's strengths, worries that the family, agency or team members have regarding the child's safety, permanence and well-being. The family and team members develop a plan that builds on strengths, meets needs and considers the long-term views.
The term "child’s attorney" refers to the Children’s Law Center of Los Angeles (CLC) attorneys as well as the Los Angeles Dependency Lawyers (LADL) attorney appointed to represent the child in dependency proceedings. In addition, the term also refers to a paralegal, social worker or any other person working for that attorney. This also includes a youth’s delinquency attorney.
A non-profit corporation whose attorneys represent children in dependency court matters.
Support staff responsible for providing required notification to the child’s attorney, as detailed in a blanket minute order issued by the Presiding Judge of the Dependency court.
Collateral contacts are individuals or agencies with information that can assist the CSW in understanding the nature and extent of the alleged child abuse/neglect and in assessing the risk to and safety of the children. Collateral Contacts include professionals working with the child or parent and have regular contact with the family. Examples include: teachers, parole officers, physicians, DPSS, DMH, therapists, hospitals, and probation.
Sexual activity involving a minor under the age of eighteen (18) in exchange for something of value (i.e., food, shelter, money). [See PEN sections 11165.1(d)(2) and PEN 236.1(c)]. Exploitation includes instances when a minor exchanges sexual acts with a “John/date” even when there is no known trafficker/pimp; Examples of CSEC: Internet-based exploitation, pornography, stripping, erotic/nude massage, escort services, private parties, interfamilial pimping, child being exploited on the streets. CSE is a form of child abuse that mandated reporters must call in to the Child Protection Hotline for each new incident/episode. This includes reporting new AND repeated incidents of CSE on open cases.
The division within the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) responsible for licensing foster care facilities, i.e., foster family homes, foster family agencies, group homes and small family homes. Additional responsibilities include investigating any reported incident of child abuse, neglect or exploitation in such facilities and/or violations of licensing standards.
Offers counseling, nutrition classes, drug education and counseling, parenting classes, pre-natal care, continuing education, pre-employment training, family planning, group outings, and aerobic and weight training classes
Questions that may confuse a young child because they reference more than one response option. For example, 'Is it right or wrong to lie?'; 'Is your shirt green or yellow?'; 'Would your mom give you candy or punish you if you told a lie?'
Lowered resistance to infection.
Concurrent Planning aims to support timely permanence for children. Safe reunification is DCFS' first priority, but in the event that this is not possible, Concurrent Planning ensures that the identification of an alternative placement plan for children who cannot safely return home is in place from the beginning. Working with a labor/management group, the department implemented changes to Concurrent Planning which support the safety and permanence for children and families from the first day they enter out-of-home care. These system changes include focusing on identifying relatives and siblings and developing 'resource families' who are committed to working toward reunification and providing legal permanence if safe reunification is not successful. Concurrent Planning also engages families and draws on their strengths and uses ongoing assessments and case planning.
An assessment document as prescribed in Welfare and Institutions Code Sections 366.21(I), 366.22(b) and 361.5(g). The CPA is initiated by the case carrying Children's Social Worker and completed by the APRD CSW when adoption home study for attached children or matching/recruitment activities for unattached children are initiated.
Adoption petition was filed by the court and stamped with the filing and the action number.
Placement of a child six years and younger in a group home prior to the Disposition Hearing due to a special need for an in-depth evaluation that can only be completed in a "congregate care" facility. The placement cannot be more than 60 days unless and extension of the placement is included in the case plan and approved by the ARA. The child’s total time spent in the placement shall not exceed more than 120 calendar days.
When a party to a lawsuit needs to postpone a matter that has been calendared for a hearing or trial, the proper procedure is to apply to the court for a continuance (postponement to a later date).
CPM is a shared model of practice developed to better integrate services and supports for children, youth and families. The model emphasizes child-centered, family-based practice to identify strengths/needs, collaborative case planning and decision making that considers the long-term view for the family, and development of a support network (team) that will continue to be available to the family even after termination of formal services. The five key practice domains include Engaging, Teaming, Assessing, Planning & Intervening and Tracking.
An officer of the court who advocates the individual needs and best interests of a child, and provides the court with written recommendations. Persons serving as CASAs are generally community volunteers who participate in a training program, after which they are appointed as an officer of the court to advocate on behalf of a child(ren). CASAs are also referred to as Child Advocates or Guardians Ad Litem (GAL).
Refers to the parent with whom the child(ren) reside(s) (i.e., the parent with physical custody or primary physical custody).
Licensed clinician who provides assistance to CSW in identifying and assessing the needs of children with special needs by ensuring that the caregiver's home meets the child's needs and that all children having special needs have those needs met in accordance with the provisions of the Katie A. settlement agreement.
A deficiency is considered any failure to comply with any provision of the Community Care Facilities Act and/or regulations adopted by DCFS or the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) Community Care Licensing Division.
Developmental delay refers to infants and toddlers having a significant difference between the expected level of development for their age and their current level of functioning. (DCFS Glossary)
A disability that originates before an individual attains age 18 years, continues or can be expected to continue, indefinitely, and constitutes a substantial disability for that individual. The term includes mental retardation, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and autism. It also includes disabling conditions found to be either closely related to mental retardation or to require treatment similar to that required for individuals with mental retardation, but shall not include other handicapping conditions that are solely physical in nature.
Services provided by the Regional Centers, which include diagnostic evaluation, coordination or resources such as education, health, welfare, rehabilitation and recreation for persons with developmental disabilities. Additional services include program planning, admission to and discharge from state hospitals, court-ordered evaluations and consultation to other agencies.
Involves a child who came to the United States for the purpose of adoption through the intercountry adoption process but entered foster care prior to finalization of the adoption regardless of the reason for the foster care placement. The disruption occurs after a child enters the United States under guardianship of the prospective adoptive parents or an adoption agency with a visa for the purposes of completing the adoption process domestically. The disruption must be reported even if the child's plan is reunification with the prospective adoptive parents and the stay in foster care is brief.
Family Code Section 297 defines domestic partners as two adults who have chosen to share one another’s lives in an intimate and committed relationship of mutual caring.
Welfare and Institutions Code Section 18291 (a) states that 'Domestic violence' means abuse committed against an adult or minor who is a spouse, former spouse, cohabitant, former cohabitant, or person with whom the suspect has had a child or is having or has had a dating or engagement relationship. Penal Code Section 13700 (b) states that "Domestic violence" means abuse committed against an adult or a minor who is a spouse, former spouse, cohabitant, former cohabitant, or person with whom the suspect has had a child or is having or has had a dating or engagement relationship. For purposes of this subdivision, "cohabitant" means two unrelated adult persons living together for a substantial period of time, resulting in some permanency of relationship. Factors that may determine whether persons are cohabiting include, but are not limited to, (1) sexual relations between the parties while sharing the same living quarters, (2) sharing of income or expenses, (3) joint use or ownership of property, (4) whether the parties hold themselves out as husband and wife, (5) the continuity of the relationship, and (6) the length of the relationship.
A child who is receiving AFDC- FC, Kin-GAP or AAP benefits and is concurrently a consumer of Regional Center services.
A web-based system used by the DHS Medical Hubs that tracks the health status of children in the child welfare system and facilitates provision of quality medical care. As part of a joint effort between DHS and DCFS, the E-mHub System accepts the electronic transmission of the DCFS Medical Hub Referral Form and returns appointment status alerts and completed examination forms, to DCFS via an e-mail notification. DCFS and DPH PHNs and PHN Supervisors have access rights to EmHub screens pertaining to the health care of children served at the Hubs. Completed examination forms may be accessed through the link in the email notification by using the SITE User ID (employee number) and Password (current password used by employee).
The EX Pass TAP Card/Sticker is a monthly pass good for MTA and local travel on twenty-four (24) different public transit carriers throughout the Greater Los Angeles region. No transfers are necessary between the EZ Pass TAP Card transit carriers.
Are characterized by severe disturbances in eating behavior. Eating disorders are divided into three categories: Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating.
Often seen in families where children are forced or allowed to work under certain illegal conditions outside and inside the home. This form of exploitation prohibits children from attending school and may place them in work environments that are a threat to their general health, safety and security. Although poverty may be a prime motivation for this type of exploitation, other situations may exist.
A stipend available to supplement (not replace) ILP. To qualify for this stipend, a youth must be eligible for ILP, be 18 years of age or older, and whose financial need has been verified by YDS. Current and former foster youth, as well as, Nonminor Dependents may qualify. The stipend may provide for, but not be limited to the following independent living needs: bus passes/transportation, housing rental and utility deposits and fees, education and work-related equipment and supplies, training-related equipment and supplies, auto insurance and driver’s education.
Emancipation allows a youth to be freed from the custody and control of their parents and to have many of the rights and responsibilities of an adult. There are three ways a minor may become emancipated: Get married with parental consent and permission from the court; Join the military; Go to court and have the judge declare you emancipated.
An ex-prate temporary restraining order issued by the Superior Court following a determination by law enforcement that a child is in immediate danger of abuse by a member of a child’s family or household. An EPO may exclude any parent, guardian or member of a child’s household from the dwelling of the person having the care, custody, and control of the child. EPO allow children to remain in their home while allegations of child abuse by the restrained parties are investigated and allow the non-offending parent time to seek assistance from Family Law Court. EPO expire at the close of the second day of judicial business following the day of issuance. EPO may only be extended by application to the appropriate court. See "Ex-Prate Order," "Judicial Business Hours" and "Restraining Order."
The term 'assessment' goes beyond the concept to evaluate a child's safety and risk, and to determine whether and what services are needed to ameliorate or prevent child abuse and neglect. In order to complete a thorough family assessment, any and all safety threats (as listed on the SDM Safety Assessment) that may compromise a child's safety and well-being must be thoroughly assessed, even if those safety threats were not identified on the referral as an allegation.
The term 'investigation' encompasses the efforts of DCFS to determine if abuse or neglect has occurred, if allegations can be substantiated.
"Emotional abuse" refers to nonphysical mistreatment, the results of which may be characterized by disturbed behavior on the part of the child such as severe withdrawal, regression, bizarre behavior, hyperactivity, or dangerous acting-out behavior.
CSW has good cause to request a ruling the same day the request is submitted, and intends to serve the warrant or at least make an attempt the same day it is granted.
Forcing or coercing a child into performing functions which are beyond his/her capabilities or capacities, or into illegal or degrading acts. The term also includes sexual exploitation, economic exploitation, exploitation involving illegal activities and exploitation in the home.
When assessing families that are involved in the gang culture investigate to see if children are encouraged from a young age to value gang membership (parents may be active or retired gang members), or if someone is teaching children gang signs, dress codes and affiliations and advocating membership, if adults are supporting violent behavior and criminal activities of the children.
Exploitation exists within the family household as well. A child may be selected to perform all or the majority of such parental tasks as cleaning, cooking and caring for younger siblings, including bathing, dressing, feeding and babysitting. Frequently, the child who is singled out in this manner is substituting for a parent who is absent or unable to fulfill parental responsibilities due to the parents' substance abuse and/or physical/mental disabilities.
The Extended Foster Care program allows a foster youth to remain in foster care and continue to receive foster care payment benefits (AFDC-FC payments) and services beyond age 18, as long as the foster youth is meeting participation requirements, living in an approved or licensed facility, and meeting other eligibility requirements.
A method of bringing family members together to come up with a recommendation to the court for a safe and permanent plan for a child. If differs from the traditional child welfare case conferencing in that although the caseworker participates in an information-sharing capacity, the family and not the child welfare worker is "in charge" of the meeting and responsible to create the recommended plan. Refer to the memo dated 1/12/15 from the DCFS Chief Deputy Director, "Teaming with Families - Operational Guidelines for Moving From Team Decision Making Meetings to Child and Family Teams" located in the Director’s Page under Memos from the Chief Deputy Director and the CPM website.
In January 1991 as a result of Senate Bill AB546, we established comprehensive community-based networks and services to protect children while they remain within their homes. The primary goal of the Family Preservation approach is the safety of children in their own homes and safe return of children being reunified after periods of placement into foster care. DCFS currently works with 38 Family Preservation agencies and covers most of Los Angeles County. On average, 5,000 families are served annually. The maximum length of time services can be provided is 12 months. The average stay in Family Preservation is 9 months.
Activities designed to provide time-limited foster care services to prevent or remedy neglect, abuse, or exploitation. The child remains in temporary foster care while services are provided to reunite the family.
An on-line Structured Decision Making (SDM) tool used for identifying family strengths and needs and to assist with case planning.
The term 'first degree relative' refers to grandparents, uncles, aunts, and adult siblings.
The Foster Care Search Engine (FCSE) is a web-based system providing an interactive search mechanism using Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. The system is a tool used to identify vacant placement homes within Los Angeles County based on the children needs and well-being. Mapping capability allows for staff to view location of vacancies in proximity to schools, community boundaries and placement of siblings. The system interfaces with CSW/CMS Datamart database to maintain data integrity and provides a web-based data entry screen for Foster Family Agencies to provide specific data not available on CWS/CMS. The system is used by Children’s Social Workers (CSW) and by Technical Assistants (TA) who assists the workers in foster care placements.
A non-profit organization licensed by the State of California to recruit, certify, train, and provide professional support to foster parents.
Greater Avenues for Independence - CalWORKs services may include GAIN services (Welfare-to-Work Program). GAIN is mandatory for parents aided on CalWORKs, unless there is an exemption (e.g., parent has a child under a year old, temporary incapacity, participant is over age 65).
A portion of the cash aid being received by a CalWORKs participant is reduced when (s)he is not adhering to GAIN Program requirements.
Penal Code Section 11165.2(b) defines general neglect as the negligent failure of a person having the care or custody of a child to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter, medical care, or supervision where no physical injury to the child has occurred.
The unavailability of a preferred placement, after a diligent search has been conducted; or the desires of the Indian parent, child, or tribe; or the child’s special needs for a placement, which offers either proximity to a parent or a therapeutic program when no available preferred placement can meet these needs.
For the purpose of the adoption home study, procedures initiated on behalf of the applicant, at the applicant's request, to appeal the Department's decision when the adoption home study has been denied by DCFS. The Grievance Review Process pamphlet outlines the specific action taken by the Department when the applicant requests a grievance review hearing. In addition, grievance procedures are in place for foster parents who want to challenge the Department's decision in regards to their care and supervision of a child(ren). Foster parents who want to challenge decisions regarding their license must follow grievance procedures from the State Department of Social Services.
Refers to behaviors or factors that may increase the risk of contracting HIV/AIDS such as: sexual activities involving exposure to the blood or semen of an infected person, sharing needles used for intravenous (IV) injections, tattooing and body-piercing with infected persons, maternal transmission (i.e., from an infected mother to her fetus during pregnancy, birth or breast feeding) when the infant’s parent has a history of behavior that places the parent at an increased risk of exposure to HIV, blood or blood products, transfusions or organ transplants during the period from 1978 to June of 1985, and child is a victim of sexual abuse that places them at risk of exposure to HIV.
Harassment is unlawful violence, a credible threat of violence, or a knowing and willful course of conduct directed at a specific person that seriously alarms, annoys, or harasses the person, and that serves no legitimate purpose. The course of conduct must be such as would cause a reasonable person to suffer substantial emotional distress, and must actually cause substantial emotional distress to the petitioner. (California Code of Civil Procedure Section 527.6 (a)(3))
An individual designated to make medical decisions on behalf of an adult if (s)he is incapable of making her/his own health care decisions. If no health care agent is appointed, when an adult has a medical emergency in which (s)he is not capable of communicating with hospital staff, the parent(s) or other relative would be asked to make decisions about medical treatment for the individual.
Passed in 2003, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is designed to give patients more control over their health information, set boundaries on the use and disclosure of health information, institute safeguards to protect privacy of health information, create accountability, civil and criminal penalties, and establish a balance between individual privacy and the public good. In cases where the law of California is more restrictive than HIPAA, the State law must be followed. Conversely, if HIPAA is more restrictive than State law, then HIPAA must be followed unless there is a legal exception.
A document that is generated on CWS/CMS that contains a summary of a child's health and education information. The caregiver keeps a current copy of the Passport, along with the health and education forms in a binder provided by DCFS. This binder shall follow the child to all placements. The Passport shall accompany the child to all medical, dental and educational appointments. The Passport binder in its entirety is given to the child upon emancipation.
A plan developed by a medical provider that assists the child/youth in developing life long practices that encourages healthy behaviors, healthy food choices and regular engagement in cardio-vascular activities.
In the context of CHDP, a child with one or more of the following conditions: A past significant medical problem or chronic illness; possible contagious disease; medication; and/or social problems (e.g., language barrier) which could conceal an unmet medical need.
The county that provides courtesy supervision for a child residing with a relative or in foster care placement whose legal jurisdiction is in another California County.
An approach to successfully connect individuals and families experiencing homelessness or housing instability to housing services without preconditions and barriers to entry such as service participation requirements.
The DCFS ICPC Unit will contact the potential host state, per existing procedures and obtain information regarding provision of services to a NMD placed in a SILP.
Shortcomings that if not corrected would have direct and immediate risk to health, safety, or personal rights of the child.
There is reasonable cause to believe that the child will experience serious bodily injury in the time it would take for the CSW to return to the office, prepare, obtain from a judge, and serve the removal order.
A report determined by the investigator conducting the investigation not to be unfounded, but the findings are inconclusive and there is insufficient evidence to determine whether child abuse or neglect, as defined in Section 11165.6, has occurred.
The adoption of a child in which neither CDSS nor an agency licensed by CDSS, such as DCFS, is a party to, or joins in, the petition for adoption.
The Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Act requires that a person who receives services from a regional center have an Individual Program Plan (IPP). Person-centered individual program planning assists persons with developmental disabilities and their families to build their capacities and capabilities. The planning team decides what needs to be done, by whom, when, and how, if the individual is to begin (or continue) working toward the preferred future. The document known as the Individual Program Plan (IPP) is a record of the decisions made by the planning team.
Those individuals who develop a health care plan for a child with special health care needs in a specialized foster care home or group home which shall include the child's primary care physician or other health care professional designated by the physician, any involved medical team, and the CSW and any health care professional designated to monitor the child's individualized health care plan, including, if the child is in a certified home, the registered nurse employed by or under contract with the certifying agency to supervise and monitor the child. The child's individualized health care plan team may also include, but shall not be limited to, a public health nurse, representatives from the California Children's Services Program or the Child Health and Disability Prevention Program, regional centers, the county mental health department, and where reunification is the goal, the parent or parents, if available. In addition, if the child is in a specialized foster care home, the individualized health care plan team may include the prospective specialized foster parents, who shall not participate in any team decision.
A person is considered institutionalized when (s)he has been residing in a hospital, jail, prison, homeless shelter, residential school, rehabilitation center, halfway house, out-of-home care facility, etc., for more than 90 calendar days. This does not include battered women's shelters.
ISWs are the key component when detention is being considered or when a detention has occurred. ISWs provide immediate linkage to services for families where a court detention was necessary. ISWs participate in child safety conferences shortly after detention to review for possible return of children and or to connect children and families to services immediately following detention.
The Intensive Treatment Foster Care Program (ITFC) was developed to meet the treatment needs of emotionally disturbed children who need out-of-home placement. An Intensive Treatment Foster Care agency refers to an organization licensed by the California Department of Social Services for children who have a history of emotional/behavioral disturbance, have experienced multiple placement histories; are at risk of hospitalization, and/or qualify for Rate Classification Level (RCL) 12 or higher group home placement.
One agency has custody of the child and another agency approved the applicant assessment.
A hearing that is not mandated by the Welfare and Institutions Code, but is set by the court to address specific information and/or receive a progress report on the case at hand.
The computer system tracking all dependency court schedules and proceedings. Additionally, this software system allows DCFS to print minute orders.
The intent of the Kin-GAP program is to establish a program of financial assistance for relative caregivers who have legal guardianship of a child while Dependency Court jurisdiction and the DCFS case are terminated. The rate for the Kin-GAP program will be applied uniformly statewide.
The Kinship Support Division promotes, increases, and sustains legal permanency for children, adolescents and young adults in relative and legal guardianship placement through providing education, supportive services, advocacy, mentoring, and aftercare that is accessible and meets the needs of the child, family, and community.
Physical custody of a minor 72 hours old or younger accepted by a person from a parent of the minor, who the person believes in good faith is the parent of the minor, with the specific intent and promise of effecting the safe surrender of the child.
Questions that suggest a desired answer; often these are questions that can be answered with a simple 'yes' or 'no.' For example: "The sky is blue, isn't it?"
Legal relief (legal remedy): the means to achieve justice in any matter in which legal rights are involved. Remedies may be ordered by the court, granted by judgment after trial or hearing, by agreement (settlement) between the person claiming harm and the person he/she believes has caused it, and by the automatic operation of law. Some remedies require that certain acts be performed or prohibited (originally called "equity"), others involve payment of money to cover loss due to injury or breach of contract, and still others require a court's declaration of the rights of the parties and an order to honor them.
Involves a child who was previously adopted from overseas (whether the full and final adoption occurred in the foreign country or domestically) but entered foster care as a result of a court terminating the parents' rights or the parents' relinquishing their rights to the child.
A child whose birth parents have had his or her parental rights terminated or whose birth parents have voluntarily given up parental rights through relinquishment.
Includes the intentional masturbation of the perpetrator's genitals in the presence of a child.
Foster family homes, small family homes, group homes, foster family agency certified homes, child care facilities.
Any medical procedure or intervention that will serve only to prolong a state of unconsciousness where there is a reasonable degree of medical authority that such state of unconsciousness is permanent, or prolong a terminal condition."
A criminal history check based upon the submission of the subjects' fingerprints to the DOJ. The inquiry may also include an inquiry of the Child Abuse Central Index and an inquiry of the FBI database, if there is an indication that the subject may have been arrested outside of California, or that the subject has been a resident of California for less than two years. The clearance will confirm the identity of the subject of the inquiry and give the subject's history of arrests and convictions.
Degree to which there are stated, shared and understood safety, well-being, and permanency outcomes and functional life goals for the child and family. The outcomes and goals should outline required protective capacities, desired behavior changes, sustainable supports, and other accomplishments necessary for the child and family to achieve and sustain adequate daily functioning and greater self-sufficiency.
California's federal Medicaid program.
As defined by Civil Code (CIV) Section 56.05(g), is any individually identifiable information, in electronic or physical form, in possession of or derived from a provider of health care, health care service plan, pharmaceutical company, or contractor regarding a patient’s medical history, mental or physical condition, or treatment. This does not include psychotherapy notes (notes made by the therapist about a private therapy session that are kept separate from the rest of the patient’s medical record). These notes are subject to additional privacy protections and cannot be disclosed by therapists even in situations where other PHI may be disclosed.
One or more of the following exist: Previous significant medical problem or chronic illness; possible contagious disease; on medication; and/or, social problem or language barrier which could conceal an unmet medical need.
Children with special health care needs as defined by Assembly Bill 2268. These children have medical conditions and symptoms that require special procedures, may be temporarily or permanently dependent upon medical equipment and/or devices, therapies and may require ongoing medical care and assessment as determined by the child’s physician. The caregiver must have been trained to provide the specialized in-home health care to these children.
A motion for rehearing or reconsideration: seeking to alter or amend a judgment or order.
For youth whose behavior places them at risk of entry into the juvenile justice system, particularly those who are subject of a 241.1 assessment. The goal of the therapy is to improve caregiver discipline practices, enhance family relations, decrease youth association with deviant peers, increase pro-social peers, improve youth school or vocational performance, engage youth in pro-social recreational outlets, and develop a support network of extended family, neighbors, and friends to help achieve and maintain such changes. (Only available in Regional Offices in SPA 6 and 7)
A program which provides a comprehensive, multi-level intervention to children and youth in the child welfare system. MTFC is an evidence-based practice (EBP). MTFC Program provides each youth with short-term treatment (average 6-12 months) in specialized foster home environment where child/youth is the only foster child and has the following: own bedroom, an individual therapist, a skills trainer, attend public school, foster parents trained in the MTFC model, permanent caregivers receive behavior training and family therapy before and after the youth is returned to their home, a program supervisor that coordinates all care and is available 24/7.
The cornerstone of and entry point to the Protective Services Child Health (PSCH) system and the focal point for a community-based Provider Network. The KDMC Hub will provide timely, comprehensive medical, developmental and psychological assessments, as well as on-site preventive health services to children in out-of-home care. In addition, the Hub will assist in the development of a comprehensive child health plan for each child, provide referrals for follow-up care and conduct provider outreach. (DCFS Glossary, from "Hub Services: King/Drew Medical Center (KDMC)")
Any team of three or more people trained in the prevention, identification, management or treatment of child abuse or neglect cases and qualified to provide a broad range of services related to child abuse or neglect. The team may include a CalWORKs case manager, whose primary responsibility is to provide cross program case planning and coordination of CalWORKs child welfare services of those mutual cases or families that may be eligible for CalWORKs services and that, with the informed written consent of the family, receive cross program case planning and coordination.
A near fatality is a severe injury or condition caused by abuse or neglect that results in the child receiving critical care for at least 24 hours following admission to a critical care unit.
The failure to provide a person with necessary care and protection. In the case of a child, the term refers to the failure of a parent(s)/guardian(s) or caretaker(s) to provide the care and protection necessary for the child's healthy growth and development. Neglect occurs when children are physically or psychologically endangered. The term includes both severe and general neglect as defined by Penal Code Section 11165.2 and medically neglected infants as described in 45 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 1340.15(b).
A network (also known as a support network, support system, or social support system) refers to an extended group of family, friends, neighbors, professionals, and/or cultural, religious, or other communities that provide support for -- and meet a wide range of needs for -- a parent/caregiver and/or the child/ren (including tribal ICWA programs, Indian organizations, and/or family members, which can include non-related tribal members). The network may consist of individuals or organizations (e.g., religious organizations, community organizations, professional providers) who care about the child/ren or family and who provide or share concrete support (e.g., financial help, transportation, babysitting) or emotional support (e.g., listening, advice).
Children who first, or initially, enter the child welfare system and are placed in out-of-home care under a WIC 300 petition. (This definition includes children in an open case under a Court FM or VFM case plan who are subsequently removed from their biological parents and placed in out-of-home care).
A hearing in which the affiliated parties are not required to appear in order for the court to proceed with the matter at hand.
Non-Child Welfare Department module within CWS/CMS used to enter non-court cases such as Kin-GAP. It contains placement and payment information, the Legal Guardian’s information and case notes. The Probation Department also enters information in the Non-CWD module for cases supervised by their department.
A relative other than the child's birth or adoptive parents.
A person appointed by the Superior Court pursuant to the provisions of the Probate Code or appointed by the Dependency Court pursuant to the provisions of the Welfare and Institutions Code, who does not meet the definition of a 'Related Legal Guardian.'
A hospital, jail, prison, homeless shelter, residential school, rehabilitation center, halfway house, out-of-home care facility, etc. where the individual has lived for more than 90 calendar days. This does not include battered women's shelters.
A current dependent child or ward of the juvenile court, or a nonminor under the transition jurisdiction of the juvenile court, who: has attained 18 years of age while under an order of foster care placement by the juvenile court; is in foster care under the placement and care responsibility of the county welfare department, county probation department, Indian tribe, consortium of tribes, or tribal organization; is participating in a transitional independent living case. Defined by WIC 11400(v).
A nonrelative extended family member is defined as an adult caregiver who has an established familial relationship with a relative of the child or a familial or mentoring relationship with the child. The county welfare department must verify the existence of a relationship through interviews with the parent and child or with one or more third parties.
Includes any sexual contact between the genitals or anal opening of one person and the mouth or tongue of another person.
also known as intravenous feeding, is a method of getting nutrition into the body through the veins. While it is most commonly referred to as total parenteral nutrition (TPN), some patients need to get only certain types of nutrients intravenously.
DPSS term for person receiving services.
This is a six-week, 33-hour program that prepares resource families (foster and adoptive) for the new roles and parenting skills they will need if they adopt. A program of mutual preparation and selection which uses the teamwork approach between foster and adoptive parents and the agency to prepare foster and adoptive parents for theexperience of parenting children with special needs, such as those supervised by DCFS. The program incorporates self-assessment, mutual decision-making and experiential preparation for foster and adoptive planning to help parents decide if their expectations and abilities match the realities of foster and adoptive parenthood.
An economic loss or expense resulting from an injury or death to a victim of crime that has not been and will not be reimbursed from any other source. This is related to compensation from being a Victim of Crime.
Includes any intrusion by one person into the genitals or anal opening of another person, including the use of any object, except for acts performed for a valid medical purpose.
Includes any of the following options: the child returns home, the court approves adoption, legal guardianship, permanent plan living arrangement with a relative/non-relative extended family member, or the child's case is closed.
The services provided to achieve legal permanence for a child when efforts to reunify have failed until the court terminates FR. These services include identifying permanency alternatives, e.g., adoption, legal guardianship, tribal customary adoption and planned permanent living arrangement. Depending on the identified plan, the following activities may be provided: inform parents about adoptive planning and relinquishment, locate potential relative caregivers and provide them with information about permanent plans (e.g., adoption, legal guardianship) and refer the caregiver to the Adoption Division for an adoptive home study, etc.
Permanency Planning Conferences (PPCs) are modeled after TDM meetings to ensure that a multi-disciplinary team of professionals, family members and caregivers meet regularly to focus on the urgent permanency needs of youth. Refer to the memo dated 1/12/15 from the DCFS Chief Deputy Director, "Teaming with Families - Operational Guidelines for Moving From Team Decision Making Meetings to Child and Family Teams" located in the Director’s Page under Memos from the Chief Deputy Director and the CPM website.
In the context of adoption, substantially correct information regarding a prospective adoptive parent. This shall include, but is not limited to, the following: full legal name; age; religion; race or ethnicity; length of current marriage and number of previous marriages; employment; whether other children or adults reside in the home; whether there are other children who do not reside in the home and the child support obligation for these children and any failure to meet these obligations; any health conditions curtailing normal daily activities or reducing normal life expectancies; any convictions for crimes other than minor traffic violations; any removal of children due to child abuse or neglect; and, general area of residence, or upon request, address.
Pertinent collateral contacts are individuals or agencies with information that can assist the CSW in understanding the nature and extent of the alleged child abuse/neglect and in assessing the risk to and safety of the children. Collateral Contacts include professionals working with the child or parent and have regular contact with the family. Examples include: teachers, parole officers, physicians, DPSS, DMH, therapists, hospitals, and probation.
Non-accidental bodily injury that has been or is being willfully inflicted on a child. It includes willful harming or injuring of a child or endangering of the person or health of a child defined as a situation where any person willfully causes or permits any child to suffer, or inflicts thereon, unjustifiable physical pain or mental suffering, or having the care or custody of any child, willfully causes or permits the person or health of the child to be placed in a situation such that his or her person or health is endangered.
Shortcomings that without correction would become a risk to the health, safety, or personal rights of the child. The child can be placed in the home pending completion of the CAP. TANF/CalWORKs is the funding source possibly available to the caregiver until the CAP is completed and eligibility for federal Foster Care funding is determined.
A meeting of attorneys and parties held for the purpose of reaching a negotiated settlement involving joint solutions.
A PPT is held for any pregnant or parenting teen under the Department’s supervision (as well as potential and recent fathers) as a youth-centered approach in order to identify and discuss issues related to pregnancy and early stages of child-rearing as well as breaking intergenerational cycles. Refer to the memo dated 1/12/15 from the DCFS Chief Deputy Director, "Teaming with Families - Operational Guidelines for Moving From Team Decision Making Meetings to Child and Family Teams" located in the Director’s Page under Memos from the Chief Deputy Director and the CPM website.
Provides for 12 months in a residential program and a 12-month outpatient transitional services program.
i.e., more likely than not
A man is presumed to be the biological father of a child if: He has signed a voluntary declaration of paternity (VDP) or, after January 1, 1997 is identified on the child’s birth certificate; He and the mother are or have been married to each other and the child is born during the marriage or within 300 days after the marriage is terminated; Before the child’s birth, he and the child’s birth mother have attempted to marry each other and the child was born during the attempted marriage or within 300 days after the termination of cohabitation; After the child’s birth, he and the child’s birth mother have married or attempted to marry and either with his consent he is named on the child’s birth certificate or he is obligated to pay child support; He receives the child into his home and openly holds out the child as his birth child; Anyone whom a court has found to be a presumed or legal father (this includes family court, dependency court, and judgments for child support services);Other men who tried to marry the mother or thought they had married the mother (even if it turns out that they did not), and even if after the birth may qualify as a presumed father. Consult County Counsel.
As it pertains to the allegations in a child welfare case, the petition must include enough facts that if later proven, will cause a child to be declared a dependent of the court.
Reasonable cause or a reasonable ground for belief in certain alleged facts (more than a hunch, but less than absolute certainty).
As defined by Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), is health (including mental health) information created or maintained by a health care provider that identifies or can be used to identify a specific individual. PHI relates to an individual’s health, health care or payment for care – in the past, present or future.
Medications used as tools for producing certain chemical and physiological effects in the central nervous system. They are usually classified according to the types of disorders they are primarily used to treat.
A pro bono law office serving low-income children, adults, and families. Through its Children's Rights Project, Public Counsel assists children in civil legal matters such as guardianship, adoption, special education, government benefits, emancipation, teen parenting issues, immigration, mental health services, access to education and transitional services upon emancipation from foster care.
Referral Address Verification System
Includes any penetration however slight, of the vagina or anal opening of one person by the penis of another person, whether or not there is the emission of semen.
An intervention, informed by a Housing First approach, that connects families and individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability to assistance that may include the use of time-limited financial assistance and targeted supportive services.
The law requires child welfare agencies to make reasonable efforts to provide services that will help families remedy the conditions that brought the child and family into the child welfare system. It is based upon a standard of reasonableness, which is a subjective test of what a reasonable person would do in the individual circumstance, taking all factors into account. This includes conducting a Due Diligence search to locate parents whose whereabouts are unknown.
When it is objectively reasonable for a person to entertain a suspicion, based upon facts that could cause a reasonable person in a like position, drawing when appropriate, on his or her training, to suspect child abuse or neglect.
The standard characterized by careful and sensible parental decisions that maintain the child's health, safety, and best interest.
The DCFS office that is responsible for providing services to the child, youth, dependent, or nonminor dependent. Usually, the office where the child's CSW is located.
Court will rule on the request by 5:00 p.m. the day after the request is filed with the court.
An adult who is related to the child by blood, adoption or affinity within the fifth degree of kinship, including stepparents, stepsiblings, and all relatives whose status is preceded by the words, 'great,' 'great-great' or 'grand' or the spouse of any of these persons even if the marriage was terminated by death or dissolution. A former stepparent is considered a relative only if the child is federally eligible.
For the purpose of placement and foster care payments: An adult who is related to the child by blood, adoption or affinity within the fifth degree of kinship, including stepparents, stepsiblings, and all relatives whose status is preceded by the words, "great," "great-great" or "grand" or the spouse of any of these persons even if the marriage was terminated by death or dissolution.
The action of a parent in which he or she surrenders custody, control and any responsibility for the care and support of the child. Currently, only an Adoption social worker or the court is qualified to process a relinquishment.
The RMP is a family centered, multi-departmental, integrated approach to identifying, coordinating and linking appropriate resources/services to meet the needs of children currently in, or at risk of a RCL 6 through 14 placement. Additional information can be found at www.lacdcfs.org/katieA/RMP/. Refer to the memo dated 1/12/15 from the DCFS Chief Deputy Director, "Teaming with Families - Operational Guidelines for Moving From Team Decision Making Meetings to Child and Family Teams" located in the Director’s Page under Memos from the Chief Deputy Director and the CPM website.
Families that have a foster care license and an approved family assessment that meets the State’s adoption standards. They are dually prepared to provide foster care and support family reunification; but, should reunification not occur, they are approved to provide an adoptive home for a child.
An order issued by the court, which enjoins a person from engaging in a specified behavior or activity, limits the distance a person may approach a specific location and/or person, or excludes a person from a specific dwelling or place of business. See "Emergency Protective Order."
For children aged three or older at the time of initial removal, services are to be provided from the dispositional hearing until the 366.21(f) hearing, unless the child is returned home. For children under the age of three, services are to be provided until the 366.21(e) hearing, unless the child is returned home.
The Review Agent conducts the Grievance Review Hearing. In accordance with CDSS Manual of Policies and Procedures (MPP) 31-020.511-.513, the Review Agent is a staff or other person not involved in the complaint; neither a co-worker nor a person directly in the chain of supervision of any of the persons involved in the complaint unless the Agent is the Director or Chief Deputy of the county; knowledgeable of the field and capable of objectively reviewing the complaint. The Review Agent for Los Angeles County, DCFS is the Manager, Appeals Section.
Supplemental Security Income. This program pays monthly benefits to blind or disabled children/youth who have limited income and resources. It is administered by Social Security.
Specialized Supportive Services - CalWORKs participants eligible to receive GAIN services may be eligible to receive Specialized Supportive Services (e.g., mental health, substance abuse, domestic violence assessment and treatment services) and transportation, child care and other ancillary expenses.
The D-Rate is the rate paid on behalf of hard-to-place children with severe and persistent emotional and/or behavioral problems. This rate can be paid for eligible children placed in the following types of out-of-home care facilities if they have been certified for the D-Rate: foster family homes, non-related legal guardian homes, nonrelative extended family member homes, foster care-eligible relative (Youakim) homes, and small family homes which are not vendorized by Regional Center but are licensed for mentally disordered/emotionally disturbed children.
The school that the foster child attended when permanently housed (prior to detention) or the school in which the foster child was last enrolled. If the school the child attended when permanently housed is different than from the school the child was last enrolled, or if there is some other school that the foster child attended with which he/she is connected (and attended within the immediately preceding 15 months) the local educational agency foster child education liaison, in consultation and agreement with the foster child and their Educational Rights Holder, can determine which school should be the child's school-of-origin.
Is defined as being able to meet one’s basic needs for food, shelter, income, and overall functioning. It is complementary to the goal of permanency, as individuals typically function better when they are surrounded by loving and caring adults. However, if one’s safety net were to be removed, self-sufficient adults would still be able to survive. In order for youth to become thriving, self-sufficient adults, they need to acquire solid assets and skills, early on, in key areas and outcome areas, such as, permanency/housing; education; social and emotional well-being; career/workforce readiness; health and medication. These four outcome areas lay the foundation for a successful transition into adulthood. To develop properly, they must be addressed and nurtured early on, at the first point of contact. Having continuous high expectations for success in these four areas is critical if youth are to have the support they need to achieve self sufficiency.
Reasonable cause to believe that the child has a need for medical care for a serious medical condition; or is in danger of physical or sexual abuse; or the physical environment poses a threat to the child's health or safety.
Penal Code Section 11165.2(a) defines severe neglect as the negligent failure of a person having the care or custody of a child to protect the child from severe malnutrition or medically diagnosed nonorganic failure to thrive. "Severe neglect" also means those situations of neglect where any person having the care or custody of a child willfully causes or permits the person or health of the child to be placed in a situation such that his or her person or health is endangered, as proscribed by Penal Code 11165.3, including the intentional failure to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter, or medical care. Child abandonment would come under this section.
Includes any single act of abuse which causes physical trauma of sufficient severity that, if left untreated, would cause permanent physical disfigurement, permanent physical disability, or death; any single act of sexual abuse which causes significant bleeding, deep bruising, or significant external or internal swelling; or repeated acts of physical abuse, each of which causes bleeding, deep bruising, significant external or internal swelling, bone fracture, or unconsciousness.
The victimization of a child by sexual activities, including, but not limited to, those activities defined in Penal Code Section 11165.1(a)(b)(c). See "sexual assault" and "sexual exploitation."
Conduct in violation of laws pertaining to: Section 261 (rape), 264.1 (rape in concert), 285 (incest), 286 (sodomy), subdivisions (a) and (b) of Section 288 (lewd or lascivious acts upon a child under 14 years of age), 288a (oral copulation), 289 (penetration of a genital or anal opening by a foreign object), or 647a (child molestation). If there are no indicators of abuse, “sexual assault” does not include voluntary sodomy, voluntary oral copulation, or voluntary sexual penetration unless the conduct is between a person 21 years of age or older and a minor under 16 years of age.
Conduct involving matter depicting a minor engaged in obscene acts in violation of Section 311.2 (preparing, selling, or distributing obscene matter) or subdivision (a) of Section 311.4 (employment of minor to perform obscene acts). Any person who knowingly promotes, aids or assists, employs, uses, persuades, induces or coerces a child, or any person responsible for a child's welfare who knowingly permits or encourages a child to engage in, or assist others to engage in, prostitution or a live performance involving obscene sexual conduct or to either pose or model alone or with others for the purpose of preparing a film, photograph, negative, slide, drawing, painting or other pictorial depiction involving obscene sexual conduct. 'Person responsible for a child's welfare' means a parent, guardian, foster parent, or a licensed administrator, or employee of a public or private residential home, residential school, or other residential institution. Any person who depicts a child in, or who knowingly develops, duplicates, prints, or exchanges, any film, photograph, video tape, negative, or slide in which a child is engaged in an act of obscene, sexual conduct, except for those activities by law enforcement and prosecution agencies and other persons described in subdivisions (c) and (e) of Section 311.3.'
Sexually Transmitted Infections, including HIV and AIDS, are transmitted from one person to another through sexual contact as well as though direct person-to-person contact with blood or body fluids that contain the infection.
A sibling is defined as a child related to another person by blood, adoption, or affinity through a common legal or biological parent.
The determination of what is considered 'significant contact' by an individual with a child will be determined by the ASFA Division in consultation with County Counsel and regional staff.
Any residential facility in the licensee's family residence, which provides 24-hour care for six or fewer foster children who have mental disorders or developmental or physical disabilities and who require special care and supervision as a result of their disabilities. WIC 11400(e)
Assembly Bill 2268, defines children with special health care needs as those children who are either temporarily or permanently dependent upon medical equipment or in need of other specific kinds of specialized in-home health care, as determined by the child’s physician. See "medically fragile."
Definition for Adoption Assistance Program (AAP), a child whose adoption, without financial assistance, would be unlikely due to one or more of the following factors: age (three years or older),ethnic background, race, color or language, mental, physical, emotional or medical handicap, adverse parental background, membership in a sibling group which should remain intact. In the context of protective services childcare, a child who is mentally or physically incapable of caring for him/herself, as verified by a physician or a licensed or certified psychologist, and requires separate accommodations to be provided with basic childcare. In the context of dependency court, a special needs child is one who has had three or more placements during a 12-month period and has a diagnosis or history of one or more of the following: conduct disorder with aggressive tendencies or antisocial behavior; attention deficit disorder treated by psychotropic drugs; self-destructive or suicidal behavior; use of psychotropic drugs; developmental disability; fire setting; manifestation of psychotic symptoms; somatizing or chronic depression or social isolation; severe sexual acting-out behavior and/or; substance abuse.
A rate paid in addition to the basic care rate for the care of children/youth with special needs.
Any of the following foster homes where the foster parents reside in the home and have been trained to provide specialized in-home health care to foster children: 1) Licensed foster family homes; 2) small family homes or; 3) certified family homes that have accepted placement of a child with special health care needs who is under the supervision and monitoring of a registered nurse employed by, or on contract with, the certifying agency, and who is either of the following: a) a dependent of the court under WIC 300 or; b) developmentally disabled and receiving services and case management from a regional center.
Includes, but is not limited to, those services identified by the child's primary physician as appropriately administered in the home of any of the following: 1) A foster parent trained by health care professionals where the child is being placed in, or is currently in, a specialized foster care home; 2) Group home staff trained by health care professionals pursuant to the discharge plan of the facility releasing the child where the child was placed in the home as of Nov. 1, 1993, and who is currently in the home; 3) a health care professional, where the child is placed in a group home after November 1, 1993. WIC 17710(h)
The act of temporarily stopping a judicial proceeding through the order of a court.
Assesses the child's present danger and the interventions currently needed to protect the child. Assesses whether any children are likely to be in immediate danger of serious harm/maltreatment and determines what interventions should be initiated or maintained to provide appropriate protection.
A thirty (30) day pass good for MTA travel only. Students must have an appropriate MTA ID Card to obtain the pass. Student Cardholders are provided with a Student TAP Card each month. There is no charge for the Card itself. Students can pick-up a photo-less Metro Student Dare ID Card (K-8 or 9-12) at participating schools or one of the four Metro Customer Centers.
Substance Abuse and Drug Testing Services are available to determine whether parents or caregivers’ abilities are impaired by the use of alcohol and drugs; if parents/caregivers need to be referred for alcohol/substance abuse treatment, and to monitor progress in treatment. Test results are used as part of the evaluation process to determine if children can remain safely in the home of their parents and caregivers, or if children can be safely returned to the care of their parents and caregivers.
A report determined by the investigator conducting the investigation to constitute child abuse or neglect, as defined in Section 11165.6, based upon evidence that makes it more likely than not that child abuse or neglect, as defined, occurred.
SILP is a supervised and approved placement that is part of the Extended Foster Care program. SILP is a flexible and the least restrictive placement setting. It can include: an apartment (alone or with roommates); shared living situations; room and board arrangements; room rented from a landlord, friend or relative, or former caregiver; or college dorms.
CWS/CMS services component for nonminor dependents (NMD) under which the required Extended Foster Care (EFC) participation criteria must be indicated.
SOC refers to a continuum of care for children and their families, which meets their mental, emotional, and behavioral needs. The program focuses on treatment for children and youth who are at risk of placement in either a group home or a more restrictive setting. An Inter- Agency Screening Committee comprised of representatives from DCFS, Department of Mental Health, the Probation Department, Special Education Local Planning Area, and local school districts, screens these type of cases. Services may include intensive in-home treatment, in-home support services, daily living skills, mental health services, crisis intervention, respite care, parent training, school intervention and therapeutic foster homes.
Refer to the memo dated 1/12/15 from the DCFS Chief Deputy Director, "Teaming with Families - Operational Guidelines for Moving From Team Decision Making Meetings to Child and Family Teams" located in the Director’s Page under Memos from the Chief Deputy Director and the CPM website.
The Transit Access Pass (TAP) Card is a monthly pass good for MTA travel only.
A process utilizing a multidisciplinary assessment and team approach in working with children and their families. Includes community-based social workers and other child and family service providers that assist the family in identifying local supports that could help reduce stresses and improve family life. Parents play a key role in identifying their needs and the supports that would be most helpful in addressing them. Refer to the memo dated 1/12/15 from the DCFS Chief Deputy Director, "Teaming with Families - Operational Guidelines for Moving From Team Decision Making Meetings to Child and Family Teams" located in the Director’s Page under Memos from the Chief Deputy Director and the CPM website.
The removal of a child from the home of a parent or legal guardian and placement or facilitation of placement of the child in the home of a non-offending parent, relative, foster caregiver; group home or institutional setting.Temporary custody also includes: placing hospital holds on children; situations in which the CSW interrupts an established Family Law Court custody or visitation orders when the CSW believes that if the order is carried out, the child would be placed in immediate risk of abuse, neglect or exploitation and the child is allowed to remain in the home of the non-offending parent; situations in which DCFS requests that law enforcement remove a child from the home of his or her parent/legal guardian and the CSW places the child with a relative or unrelated caregiver; and situations in which the child is living with a relative or an unrelated caregiver and all of the following conditions exist: child’s parent is asking for the child to be returned home, CSW believes that the return of the child to his or her parent would place the child at risk of abuse, neglect or exploitation, CSW does not allow the child to be returned to his or her parent; and, the child remains in the home of the relative or is placed in out-of-home care.
When a child is declared free from the care custody and control of his or her birth parents by court action.
A free legal services organization focused solely on protecting the rights of impoverished, abused and neglected children in Los Angeles County – children in foster care, children with educational disabilities, children who need healthcare or public benefits, and children in need of legal guardianship or adoption.
For the purposes of assigning Dependency Investigation tasks, a traditional residence is a house, an apartment, room(s) in a shared house or apartment, or another residence not included under the definition of non-traditional residence.
Hearing held by the receiving county court to determine if the case transfer request will be accepted.
Hearing held by the sending county court to determine the appropriateness of the transfer request. The court may order a case transferred to a different county during the Transfer-Out Hearing.
A home that has been licensed or approved by an Indian child’s tribe or a tribal organization designated by the Indian child’s tribe, for foster or adoptive placements of an Indian child using standards established by the tribe.
In the context of adoption, a person who has applied to adopt a child but has not been matched with an available child, and is therefore considered "unattached" to a particular child. An applicant for adoption who is not already linked with a specific child to adopt.
In the context of adoption, a child for whom adoption is the identified permanent plan but for whom no prospective adoptive parent has been identified.
A report determined by the investigator conducting the investigation to be false, inherently improbably, to involve an accidental injury, or not constituting child abuse or neglect as defined in Section 11165.6.
An aggressive, standardized approach to infection control which treats all human blood and certain body fluids as if they were known to contain blood-borne pathogens.The extension of blood and body fluid precautions to all patients. Under universal precautions, blood and certain body fluids of all patients are considered potentially infectious for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and other bloodborne pathogens. (CDC)
Authorities, e.g. CSWs, law enforcement, etc, have reasonable evidence that a parent is abusive, cannot provide love and support to the child, or will in some significant way interfere with the examination.
The provision of non-court, time-limited protective services to families whose children are in potential danger of abuse, neglect, or exploitation when the children can safely remain in the home with DCFS services. In order to receive VFM services, the family must be willing to accept them and participate in corrective efforts to ensure that the child's protective needs are met. There is a six-month time limit for this service.
The foster care placement of a child by or with the participation of DCFS acting on behalf of CDSS, after the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the child have requested the assistance of DCFS and signed a voluntary placement agreement form.
A legal document filed by DCFS in juvenile dependency court alleging that a child is described under Welfare and Institution Code (WIC) 300.
A hearing will be held no later than 120 days from the date of the Permanency Review Hearing. The purpose of a WIC Section 366.26 hearing is to identify and implement a permanent plan for a dependent child of the court. The court will then make findings and orders in the following order of preference: permanently terminate the rights of the parent or parents and order that the child be placed for adoption; or, without permanently terminating parental rights, identify adoption as the goal and order that efforts be made to locate an appropriate adoptive family for the child within a period not to exceed 180 days; or, appoint a legal guardian and issue letters of guardianship; or, order that the child be placed in long-term foster care, subject to the periodic review of the court under WIC 366.3.
A request to submit a report to the court when a hearing is not calendared, but the matter requires immediate court attention. Walk-on hearings may be appearance or non-appearance matters.
The Welfare and Institutions Code (WIC) section that describes abuse, neglect, exploitation, and other endangerment situations and conditions whereby a child may be removed from the care and custody of parents or legal guardians and declared a dependent of the court under DCFS supervision.
W-Homes provide foster care to dependent teen parents and their non-dependent children, while assisting the teen parent’s to develop the skills they will need to provide a safe, stable and permanent home for their children. This is not a new licensing category. A W-Home can be a family home, approved relative caregiver or non-relative extended family member’s (NREFM) home, or the home of a non-related legal guardian whose guardianship was established pursuant to WIC Section 366.26 or 360.
A situation where any person willfully causes or permits any child to suffer, or inflicts thereon, unjustifiable physical pain or mental suffering or having the care or custody of any child, willfully causes or permits the person or health of the child to be placed in a situation such that his or her person or health is endangered.
These include concerns the family, team members or DCFS have related to the safety of the children/youth. The worries help the team identify what is important to ensure a safe and secure future for the children/youth.
Wraparound is a multi-agency initiative. The Wraparound approach is a family-centered, strengths-based, needs-driven planning and service delivery process. It advocates for family-professional partnership to ensure family voice, choice and ownership. Wraparound children and family teams benefits children by working with the family to ensure Permanency. Wraparound is funded through Title IV-E funds. The average length of involvement with the program is 8 months. The primary focus of the program is to keep children out of residential placements and maintain them safely in their family and community.
The practice of using flipchart pads and markers to write all brainstormed team responses to the agenda items during the CFT meeting. Examples of what is charted include: Family goal, non-negotiables, strengths, worries, needs and the plan for "what could go wrong".
Refers to the socially constructed roles, behaviors, activities, and attributes that a given society considers appropriate for boys and men or girls and women. These influence the ways that people act, interact, and feel about themselves. Gender is different from Sex in that Sex is assigned at birth.
an internal understanding of one’s own gender (e.g. a person’s internal sense of being male, female or something else). Therefore, a transgender person’s gender identity does not match the sex assigned to him or her at birth.
Ideas on what possible needs may be driving a person's behavior.
Matters related to the safety and well-being of the child(ren)/youth that cannot be changed at the present time (e.g. children cannot be supervised by anyone under the influence). Non-negotiables are focused on the "now" and should give the team ideas about the limits to planning and clarity on what cannot be compromised.
A continuous learning process in which you think about your practice, and consciously analyze your decision-making. It is an important tool in developing insight based on professional experiences, drawing on theory and relating it to practice.
A continuous process by which the "right people" for the child, youth and family have formed a CFT that meets, talks and plans together. The CFT has the skills, family knowledge and abilities, necessary to define the strengths and needs of the child and family, in order to organize effective services specific to their needs.
A need is what drives a behavior and what makes a behavior functional for the person. The child and/or youth's needs should be the focus of the teaming process to ensure their safety and well-being. Recognizing the individual and family needs is central to the family-engagement and planning process.
Degree to which the focus child(ren), parents (including the non-custodial parent), family members, and caregivers are active ongoing participants (e.g. having a significant role, voice, choice and influence) in shaping decisions made about child and family strengths and needs, goals, supports and services.