Field Safety in Child Welfare: Preventing and Managing Client Violence
0400-503.50 | Issued Date: 6/2/2025
Overview
This policy provides specific guidance to DCFS employees in an effort to minimize the risk of client violence, with an emphasis on mitigating harm through sound decision making and the adherence to specific procedures designed to keep them as safe as possible while performing job functions or tasks.
This is a new policy in support of workplace safety, including practice guidelines.
POLICY
Introduction
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health defines workplace violence as an act or threat of violence, ranging from verbal abuse to physical assault, directed toward people at work or on duty. This includes written threats, verbal threats, and threatening behavior. Therefore, workplace violence is any act or threat of physical violence, harassment, intimidation, or other threatening disruptive behavior that occurs at the worksite. While these acts can be initiated by clients, co-workers, contractors or people not associated with the department, the focus of this policy is on the prevention of Client Violence.
This policy is evidence based, and experience informed. Following the OSHA Guidelines for Preventing Workplace Violence for Healthcare and Social Services Workers (2016), DCFS conducted a study to explore the prevalence and occurrence rates for various forms of client violence. The study (2021) concluded that Child Protective Workers (TSAs, HSAs, CSWs and SCSWs) were at two to three (2-3) times greater risk than other DCFS employees for all forms of client violence such as stalking, threatening, property damage, and/or physical and sexual aggression. This same study found that certain job-related tasks such as detaining children transporting youth and supervising family time were found to be particularly dangerous.
While the risk of client violence is inherent in Child Protective Services work, it can be minimized through thoughtful leadership, effective procedures and proper training. It is important to remember safety is paramount. If efforts to de-escalate a client have failed, staff are advised to recognize it early and change tactics. It is possible that staff will need to safely extricate themselves from the situation and call for back up from a supervisor, colleague, law enforcement, security or EMT. This policy offers some helpful ideas and procedures offered by experts on these topics that may help staff safely navigate difficult situations.
The purpose of this policy is to specify the procedures and responsibilities of leaders, Child Protection Workers and support staff to mitigate the risk of harm. This policy outlines safety procedures for a variety of common situations faced by child protection workers and support staff, such as completing field visits, completing replacements, serving removal orders, serving search warrants, transporting children, taking children/youth to the HUB for Transitional Shelter Care Facility (TSCF) placement, visiting families at detention facilities, supervising family time, and meeting with clients at DCFS worksites. This list is not all exhaustive and there may be other situations faced by child protection workers that place their safety at risk. Due to the nature of the job, the potential for client escalation can occur at any time, making it essential to develop and maintain good safety habits, and have strong safety protocols in place.
The types of plans that DCFS staff develop to minimize the risk of harm will vary, on a case-by-case basis. Building strong communication amongst DCFS staff about case-specific issues is vital. Preparation starts by practicing proper communication between management, supervisors, CSWs, HSAs, and other supportive staff. Communication includes the proper documentation in CWS/CMS through safety alerts, case notes, and contact notes of known risk factors presenting a potential danger to anyone working with the family. Anyone with access to the referral/case can at any time be aware of and plan for situations that may put them at risk of harm. Communication also includes discussions and planning between different staff members, which can occur in a variety of ways such as during referral/case consultations, Child and Family Team meetings, when transferring cases, etc. Discussions should include asking questions related to known risk factors presenting a potential danger to anyone working with the family.
Reporting Workplace Violence/Threat Management
Employees shall report to their Supervisors or Managers all known threats/acts of violence against themselves or other employees as well as any suspicion of danger to any employee in the workplace, or to the workplace in general, from an individual known to them outside the workplace or from a fellow employee.
As per Management Directive (MD) 95-06 (Acts/Threats of Violence Against Employees in the Workplace), Managers, Supervisors and all employees shall consider response and reporting measures in instances such as:
A physical attack upon an employee at the job site.
Overt threats of violence towards an employee, whether made in person, via telephone, by written correspondence, or as overheard in conversation or social media.
Acts or gestures made in such a manner that a clear act of violence toward an employee or the workplace is being implied.
Overt or implied threats of violence towards any employee or County facility via any means; this could include subtly implied threats made by an individual who, by virtue of their mental or emotional distress or other specific actions and/or innuendos, appears to pose a legitimate threat.
The presence of an illegally carried weapon or incendiary device in a county facility or a loaded weapon illegally kept in a car parked in a lot leased or owned by the County.
A Security Incident Report (SIR) is a form used by the Office Head to document and report to the County Security Operations Unit all incidents of physical assault, overt threat, or implied threat to an employee in the workplace.
A SIR should be completed by the person reporting or involved in the incident or their manager/supervisor/designee. Management Directive (MD) 95-06 describes information and instructions on completing the SIR.
Safety Alerts
Safety alerts are created in CWS/CMS for clients with known risk factors presenting a potential danger to anyone working with the family. Activating or deactivating an alert is only allowed if the user has Supervisor Approval, or Approval and Assignment/Transfer Authority. When activating a Safety Alert, the following are mandatory fields that must be completed: a reason, a text format explanation of the reason, and the effective date of the alert.
The following are the nine activation reasons to create Safety Alerts (more than one alert can be chosen):
Dangerous Animal on Premises
Firearms in Home
Hostile Client
Aggressive Client
Threat of Assault on Staff Member
Remote or Isolated Location
Severe Mental Health Status
Gang Affiliation or Gang Activity
Dangerous Environment
Other
Active Safety Alerts or Safety Alert history will be displayed in the following places in CWS/CMS:
Case Notebook ID page
Referral Notebook ID page (if it’s an open referral)
Client Notebook Summary page
Client Abstract ID page
Client Search Results
Open Notebook-Client dialog box
The Child Protection Hotline will continue to put Safety Alerts in the Screener Alert and the Screener Narrative, however, if the Safety Alert is confirmed by the ER CSW, the ER SCSW shall record any Safety Alerts that apply to clients on the referral on the ID page of the appropriate client’s Client Notebook. All staff (except Screeners) in working a case or referral should report Safety Alert(s) to their SCSW who should record the Safety Alert(s) on the ID page of the client’s Client Notebook. When circumstances change that warrant the deactivation of Safety Alert(s), staff should report this to their SCSW who will have the discretion to deactivate the Safety Alerts.
De-Escalation in Crisis Situations
Child Protective Workers, supervisors and staff are only authorized to utilize the approved de-escalation and self-protection techniques taught in the “Non-violent Crisis Intervention” course provided by the DCFS Training Section. However, if a DCFS employee believes their life to be in mortal danger, they may use whatever means necessary to preserve one’s life and escape the situation.
The term “De-escalation” is defined as interventions that help lessen a potential crisis. De-escalation in potentially violent situations entails a critical skill set that plays a pivotal role in diffusing tense encounters, preventing escalation, and promoting safety and professionalism for all parties involved.
Understanding Distress Behaviors and Its Risk
When a situation begins to escalate into a potential crisis, that person’s level of distress can escalate very quickly. It can reach a point where the behavior poses an imminent or immediate risk of harm to self or others.
Factors to consider in a potentially violent situation require the ability to identify behaviors at different levels of a crisis moment and the risks associated with the behaviors using the technique of de-escalation. By utilizing supportive approaches, staff can contribute to de-escalating high-stress environments, fostering understanding, and ultimately preventing and or retreating to safety as soon as possible. De-escalation involves a deliberate and objective approach to potentially violent encounters, emphasizing communication, empathy, and understanding. Examples of de-escalation techniques can be found on De-Escalation: Disengagement Response/Safety Interventions.
Note: Behaviors and situations can vary, these guidelines are not all inclusive and the recommended strategy is to safely retreat and consult.
Staff Supportive Communication
De-escalating potentially violent situations includes supportive communication using verbal (the actual words we use to send the message), paraverbal (the way words are said, such as tone, volume, and speed used), and non-verbal (body language such as gestures, facial expressions, eye contact, personal space, posture, and use of touch) strategies to convey empathy, understanding, encouragement, and any existing precipitating factors. These skills are crucial in building positive relationships, providing emotional support, fostering effective communication, and utilizing safe approaches in de-escalating situations.
Here are some examples of supportive communication:
Verbal: Acknowledge feelings, ask open-ended questions to help the client express their feelings, and offer to help. Consider keeping sentences short, simple, and clear. Convey respect and phrase words positively.
Paraverbal: Use caring supportive tones, keep the volume appropriate to the situation, and deliver the message at a speed the client can process. It is not just the words that are said, but also the way they are said that makes the difference.
Non-verbal: Maintain appropriate and comfortable eye contact, smile when appropriate to create a positive and reassuring atmosphere, and use gentle and supportive gestures, such as nodding, to signal agreement or understanding. Non-verbal supportive communication, when aligned with paraverbal and verbal communication, enhances the overall effectiveness of conveying empathy and understanding. It creates an environment where individuals feel heard, valued, and supported.
Staff Supportive Approaches to Observable Behaviors
Anxiety Behaviors: If a client is displaying anxiety, which presents as a change in typical behavior such as nervous movements, pacing, fidgeting, slurred, delayed or rapid speech, sighing, increased irritability or shutting down, crying, non-typical body movements, eye movement or excessive sweating, staff should respond with a supportive empathetic, non-judgmental, and supportive approach.
Staff Supportive Approach for Anxiety Behaviors: Staff can be patient, listen, and convey empathy. Staff should focus on helping the client meet their needs and address the cause of their behavior.
Defensive Behaviors: If a client is displaying defensive behavior, which results in a client protecting oneself from a real or perceived challenge or threat, such as shouting, refusal, asking challenging questions like, “who are you to tell me what to do?” or acting in a threatening manner.
Staff Approach for Defensive Behaviors: Staff should respond with a directive approach providing clear direction and instruction. Staff can use short simple phrases that the client can follow or give simple and reasonable choices that help the client consider positive behaviors and outcomes.
Risk Behaviors: When a client is displaying risk behavior, which results in a behavior that presents an imminent or immediate risk of harm to self or others, such as striking, throwing objects, possession of harmful objects, non-typical rapid body movements, bloodshot or glazed eyes, pulling or pushing others, or harming oneself. These actions increase the degree of harm in addition to the actual behavior, which can lead to serious injury.
Staff Approaches for Risk Behaviors: Staff should respond with non-restrictive strategies (not involving restrictions or limitations of another person) to maximize safety and minimize harm. Staff can continue to use supportive approaches such as being patient, listening and conveying empathy and directive interventions by providing clear, short and simple phrases with the person/s in crisis while promoting a safe environment and moving to a place of safety.
Disengagement may become necessary in a crisis. Disengagement is a non-restrictive safety intervention used to release or escape in an effort to self-protect, or to protect others. Staff should evaluate each crisis, retreat to safety and contact the appropriate parties when possible. However, if retreating is not an option and imminent/immediate danger is present, defendable strategies shall be utilized in order to maintain safety as a last resort intervention, reasonable and proportionate to the behavior.
All staff should participate in DCFS De-escalations/Crisis Intervention training for the most up to date safety interventions.
DCFS staff are encouraged to retreat to safety, safely during a crisis, get help and consult with a supervisor during these critical times.
Staff are not expected to re-engage in any unsafe situation prior to consultation with a supervisor, or the development of a Plan of Action, if and when safe to do so.
Resources and Support
Helpful Safety Tools
The following safety tools are available for review on LAKids:
DCFS Workplace Safety Website- The information on this site has been thoughtfully gathered and organized to enhance DCFS staff knowledge of workplace safety practices. DCFS staff are encouraged to explore this site to find actionable tips, training, relevant policies and forms, and details on how to access treatment resources.
How to Activate iPhone Emergency SOS (Brochure)(Video)
Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Request for Confidentiality of Home Address- This FYI outlines procedures for requesting confidentiality of home address through the DMV. Child abuse investigators, social workers, and employees performing child protective services within a social services department are eligible for confidentiality of home address. Only those with the job title of DCFS Supervising Children’s Social Worker, Children’s Social Worker, Dependency Investigator Assistant, Adoption Assistant, Group Supervisor, and Human Services Aide (HSA), and their spouse/registered domestic partner and/or child(ren), are eligible for confidentiality of home address.
Staff Support
The following resources are available to DCFS staff:
DCFS Peer Support Program- The DCFS Peer Support Program was established to help social workers cope with exposures to potentially traumatizing events.
Wellness Resources for County Employees- Comprehensive list of several emotional and mental health resources available to all County employees and family members.
Prior to any face-to-face contacts, CSWs are to assess for their personal safety by reviewing all CWS/CMS case files/documents for any safety warnings or safety alerts. If CSWs have any concerns for their personal safety, they are to consult with their SCSW or Manager prior to making any face-to-face contact, and a personal safety plan is to be developed and documented in CWS/CMS. Personal safety plans may include, but are not limited to the following:
Staff are not expected to place themselves at risk in the field under any circumstances. Law enforcement should be contacted to accompany staff in known high-risk situations. Precautions must be taken in all high-risk circumstances/environments such as consultation with supervisor/management, law enforcement, collaterals, and review of historical information prior to contact with the clients and/or leaving the office. All necessary safety precautions shall be exercised prior to leaving the office. All high-risk circumstances must be discussed and documented timely and appropriately.
Designated DCFS Staff (CSW/HSA) Responsibilities
DCFS staff are encouraged to safely retreat during crisis, get help and consult with a supervisor during these critical times. Disengagement should be the last resort, if retreating to safety is not optional.
If staff find themselves in a situation requiring disengagement interventions, consider the following steps:
Using open-ended questions to help client express feelings while making sure to keep sentences short, clear, and concise.
Using a supportive tone while keeping the volume appropriate to the present situation.
Maintaining appropriate eye contact and using supportive gestures such as head nodding and smiling when appropriate.
If the client is demonstrating anxious behavior, staff can:
Focus on helping the client meet their needs while patiently addressing the cause of the client’s behavior.
If the client is demonstrating defensive behavior, staff can:
Provide clear directions and instructions that provide the client with reasonable choices, focusing on positive behaviors and outcomes.
If the steps above do not de-escalate the situation and the client demonstrates risk behavior, staff can:
Continue to use the interventions above in an attempt to reduce risks and retreat to safety.
If staff determine the current situation is in crisis and retreating to safety may not be safe at that time, staff should take reasonable and proportionate action(s) to disengage themselves from the situation. It is important to remember interventions must be proportionate to the behavior or action. Staff should never act in a way of punishment, defensive acts/engagement or revenge. The action taken should be equal or less than the harm that may arise from the situation. Non-restrictive strategies should always be appropriate and proportionate to the situation. A supportive stance may be useful in this situation or any, which requires de-escalation.
Staff are encouraged to attend the DCFS training offerings and to use training materials on disengagement practices, specific to DCFS staff.
If any safety issues come up, staff should consult with their supervisor (or the duty supervisor, if supervisor is unavailable), when safe to do so, and advise them of the safety issues.
After the initial contact, if there are safety concerns noted, make a safety plan for future visits to occur at a safe location.
If any safety issues are noted, staff should inform their supervisor so that a Safety Alert can be created on CWS/CMS.
Supervisor Responsibilities
Review the case/referral with the designated staff for safety alerts or other documented safety concerns regarding the family. This may include reviewing any documented history on court orders, restraining orders, criminal history, previous dangerous interactions, etc.
Consult with staff about developing a plan to address all safety issues, if any are identified.
Decide whether additional staff is needed to address the safety issues.
Be available to staff for consultation and confirm the emergency communication number is ready to be utilized in case of an emergency.
Identify a backup supervisor and/or designated personnel to be available, as needed.
If needed during after-hours, contact ERCP (by phone at 213-639-4500 or by email at ERCP-Regional_Assist@dcfs.lacounty.gov) for additional support, and ask to speak to the duty ERCP SCSW.
Provide staff support information to impacted staff.
Develop a plan of action with the management team/supervisor, and any other appropriate staff to prevent future crises and to ensure safety.
Safety Precautions When Conducting Field Visits
DCFS staff are not expected to place themselves in danger or risk their life or health while performing child welfare services. If there is the potential for violence, it is essential to take precautions. It is not expected that staff will compromise their safety in an attempt to de-escalate clients. DCFS staff must rely upon their own training and experience, in consultation and coordination with supervisors and administrators, to determine the most effective steps to ensuring personal safety, even if those steps may differ from these guidelines. The following information is not all exhaustive, and these guidelines may not apply to every client or every case.
To increase staff safety, the following guidelines should be considered prior to conducting field visits:
Designated DCFS Staff (CSW/HSA) Responsibilities
If the designated staff does not have referral/case and/or CSW/CMS access, consult with the assigned CSW/SCSW to obtain the information.
CSW only: Prior to meeting with the family, review referral/case history and CWS/CMS Safety Alerts, and make note of any previous documented indicators of violence. Also, review “case notes” for any documented safety information, if available.
This can include determining whether going out with a co-worker and/or law enforcement is applicable.
If law enforcement is not available, and their presence is vital, staff should not compromise their safety. Staff should speak with their supervisor to come up with an alternative plan that coincides with law enforcement responding and consider other options.
Avoid dangerous or unfamiliar neighborhoods at night, when possible.
Ensure approvals on field itineraries prior to going out into the field, as this may be the only way the office knows the staff’s location.
Notify the supervisor before entering and at the point of exit at any home/location where there is concern for safety.
Wear clothing and shoes that allow ease of movement and does not permit being easily grabbed. Badges should be worn on a quick release holder or should be clipped onto clothing.
Refrain from wearing expensive and flashy items.
Keep valuable personal belongings out of sight (such as the trunk of a vehicle).
Ensure that the vehicle that will be used has sufficient gas or electric vehicles are sufficiently charged.
Consider using a county vehicle when there are safety concerns.
Be aware of where and how the vehicle is parked (i.e. park on the street with the vehicle facing the nearest exit to the location) and keep the car keys easily accessible.
Only carry necessary documents/items into a home or during a visit.
When approaching the home or other location, if a threat appears imminent, staff should return to their vehicle, leave the area, and contact their supervisor to create a safety plan prior to their return to the location.
Upon arrival, ensure that the vehicle doors are already locked. Check the surroundings for safety before getting out of the vehicle. Upon leaving the location, return quickly and safely to the vehicle and ensure to immediately engage the locks prior to departure.
Prior to entering the home/location:
Do not enter or approach the location if it appears that a crime is in progress. Leave the area immediately and call 911/Law Enforcement.
Be alert to suspicious neighborhood surveillance (lookouts with phones, cameras in odd areas, bikes roaming around vehicles taking license plates, etc.)
Be aware of gates/bars on windows.
Be aware of the presence of any dangerous pets/animals outside or inside the location.
When approaching the home/location, if a threatening animal is encountered:
If it is unsafe to approach the home/location, staff should return to their vehicle or go somewhere else safe and contact their supervisor to create a safety plan prior to their return to the location.
One option in this situation could be for staff to contact the family, let them know their reason for being there, and ask if the family can put the animal in a safe location before the CSW can safely approach/enter the home.
If possible, ask if the pets/animals can be confined in a kennel or a separate room/area.
Final determination of the agreed upon plan developed will default to the SCSW, with considerations for specific referral/case issues, child safety issues, court orders, etc., that need to be addressed.
The County ordinance requires that dogs be restrained on a substantial leash by a person capable of controlling the dog while on public property or common areas of private property.
Concerns about dangerous animals may be reported to the Department of Animal Care and Control’s Communication Center. Contact Information can be found on their “Contact Us” webpage.
Talent Works offers an e-learning training called “Staying Safe Around Animals,” which provides useful information on animal safety.
When in the home/location:
Notice where the exits are and ensure that the exits are not blocked by any person or object.
When possible, learn the layout of location and the immediate surroundings.
If a client’s escalation or mental condition necessitates, consider utilizing de-escalation strategies and develop an exit strategy. Assess exits and calmly terminate the interview to leave early.
Be alert for weapons and drug paraphernalia. If weapons or drug paraphernalia are discovered, assess exits and calmly terminate the interview. Leave the area immediately and call 911/Law Enforcement.
Align to the nearest exit for quick retreat.
After leaving the home/location:
Upon completing the visit, leave the location as soon and as safe as possible. If there is concern about being followed, drive to the nearest police station.
If any safety issues come up, consult with the supervisor (or the duty supervisor, if assigned supervisor is unavailable) and advise them of the safety issues as soon as possible.
After the initial contact, if there are safety concerns noted, make a safety plan for future visits to occur at another safe location.
Follow your own instincts. For example, if there is a feeling of danger on a visit, there is probably a good reason for it. Take whatever action is needed to ensure safety. If in an unsafe situation, leave and consult a supervisor immediately or contact 911/law enforcement in emergency situations.
Supervisor Responsibilities:
Review the case/referral with the designated staff for safety alerts or other documented safety concerns regarding the family. This may include reviewing any documented history on court orders, restraining orders, criminal history, previous dangerous interactions, etc.
Consult with staff about developing a plan to address all safety issues, if any are identified.
Decide whether additional staff is needed to address the safety issues.
Be available to staff for consultation and confirm the emergency communication number is ready to be utilized in case of an emergency.
Identify a backup supervisor and/or designated personnel to be available, as needed.
If needed during after-hours, contact ERCP (by phone at 213-639-4500 or by email at ERCP-Regional_Assist@dcfs.lacounty.gov) for additional support, and ask to speak to the duty ERCP SCSW.
Consider using a county vehicle when there are transportation safety concerns and/or if there are a significant number of children. County vehicles are to be driven by certified drivers only. Additional information can be found on the section Safety Precautions During Transportation of Children/Youth.
Have the next destination logged into GPS upon entering the vehicle to leave the home/location. Do not linger.
Be prepared with all necessary paperwork, including having sufficient amount of copies of the signed warrant application, when applicable.
When completing a replacement or serving any type of warrant, discuss with a supervisor whether law enforcement consultation and/or assistance is necessary to ensure the safety of all parties.
Law enforcement may want to develop a plan of action/tactical plan in preparation for assisting DCFS with serving a warrant.
Give Law enforcement as much notice as possible.
Seek a Watch Commander or Investigating Officer for support.
Factors to consider when deciding to call law enforcement for assistance include whether there are weapons in the home, narcotics, gangs, or other criminal conduct.
For additional assistance, contact the Department’s law enforcement liaison.
If safety permits, it is preferable to conduct removals and replacements during the daytime.
For a court order, it is permitted to serve between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m.
The exception is when there is a specific order for night service, which would allow service between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.
When approaching the home without law enforcement:
Consider using the buddy system (bringing additional staff for support). Reconsider having law enforcement assistance or a DCFS staff backup if any safety concerns are noted as the home is approached.
Assess the surroundings and environment and be aware of surveillance cameras or other concerning elements.
Find all of the exit points. Make every effort to conduct the interview close to an exit point.
Know all the parties that are inside the home and ask for consent to do a walkthrough of the home.
If in the home without law enforcement presence and concerns for safety come up:
During the point of contact, if serving at a residence, know of the entrance/exit points.
Always leave a dangerous situation in the safest way possible. If a concern comes up about being followed, drive to the nearest police station.
Follow your own instincts. For example, if there is a feeling of danger on a visit, there is probably a good reason for it. Take necessary and safest action when needed, to ensure your own well-being. If in an unsafe situation, leave and consult a supervisor immediately or contact 911/law enforcement in emergency situations.
Consult with a supervisor, or designated personnel, when safe to do so, during the course of serving the warrant and/or at the time of replacing the child/youth. Follow up at the end to confirm safety after leaving the scene.
If needed, during after-hours contact ERCP (by phone at 213-639-4500 or by email at ERCP-Regional_Assist@dcfs.lacounty.gov) for additional support, and request to speak with a duty ERCP SCSW.
Report any safety issues that come up during the encounter to the supervisor.
Supervisor Responsibilities
Review the case/referral with the designated staff for safety alerts or other documented safety concerns regarding the family.
When applicable, consult with the Department’s Law Enforcement Liaison/Regional Office Law Enforcement Liaison.
Be available to staff for consultation and confirm the emergency communication number is ready to be utilized in case of an emergency.
Identify a backup supervisor and/or designated personnel to be available, as needed.
If needed during after-hours, contact ERCP (by phone at 213-639-4500 or by email at ERCP-Regional_Assist@dcfs.lacounty.gov) for additional support, and ask to speak to the duty ERCP SCSW.
Provide support staff information to impacted staff.
Develop a plan of action with the management team/supervisor, and any other appropriate staff to prevent future crises and to ensure safety.
Safety Precautions for Taking Children/Youth to the HUB for Transitional Shelter Care Facility (TSCF) Placement
Transitional Shelter Care Facility (TSCF) Staff is comprised of Placement Assistance Staff (PAS), SCSWs, and Human Services Aides (HSA)/Group Supervisor Transport Staff.
Additional information and procedures to initiate a placement search and to obtain approval to transport a child/youth to a 72-hour TSCF can be reviewed on the Transitional Shelter Care (TSC) Program policy.
CSW Responsibilities:
Call the PAS Duty SCSW at (323)409-4401, (323)409-4402, or (323)409-4403 to consult and complete a pre-approval intake interview as soon as it is believed that a child/youth may need to go to a TSCF (intake interview can occur before 5 p.m., for planning purposes).
Identify safety concerns regarding the child/youth, including, but not limited to:
History of aggressive or assaultive behaviors
Substance abuse
Mental health/behavioral challenges
History of fire setting
Commercially Sexually Exploited Children (CSEC) involvement
Gang affiliation, etc.
Probation involvement
Identify specific medical issues:
Medications (including dosage) and medication status
Plan to obtain the PMA or the parent/legal guardian signed affidavit that consents to medication.
Communicate any other medical needs or security concerns.
Prior to transporting the child/youth, obtain safety status of whether the child/youth is eligible to be cleared at the Los Angeles General Medical Center (LAGMC) (formally known as LAC+USC hospital) or Martin Luther King (MLK) HUB.
If child/youth has no restrictions, obtain permission to proceed to appropriate HUB.
If youth require appropriate measures per LAGMC or MLK HUB Administration, identify staff, need for building security or other safety enhancements to be implemented prior to transporting the child/youth.
If the child/youth is on the “not allowed to be cleared” list per VIP Administration, proceed to the emergency room or other designated hospital for medical clearance. PAS staff will advise of alternative locations to transport the child/youth.
If other security enhancements need to be implemented, work with the PAS and Regional SCSW to develop strategies that best meet the needs of the child/youth and staff.
Upon arrival to the LAGMC or MLK HUB:
Park in the designated DCFS allotted parking spaces, when possible.
Proceed to the building Security Officer to have all personal items scanned.
Safety protocol requires that the general public, including DCFS minors age twelve (12) and older, are required to have their bags/personal property searched and pockets emptied prior to walking through the metal detector at both the LAGMC and MLK HUB sites.
The hospital security/LASD deputies will confiscate all contraband such as weapons, drug paraphernalia, lighters, etc. If the individual in possession of the detected contraband refuses to surrender the item(s), they will be prohibited from entering the building.
Security may hand over contraband to assigned staff.
After going through security clearance, check in with the assigned Duty PAS SCSW at the designated site.
Thereafter, check in with LAGMC or MLK HUB staff member(s) for medical clearance.
If checking the child/youth in after hours (11:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m.), contact the PAS Duty SCSW at (323) 409-4401 prior to transporting the child/youth to the HUB.
Remain with the child/youth throughout the medical clearance process.
Should the child/youth leave (run away) prior to transport, contact law enforcement to file a Missing Person’s Report (MPR). The MPR number will be provided to the duty PAS SCSW to be logged into the TSCF reports.
The CSW is cleared once the child/youth is fastened in the county vehicle and the vehicle departs for the designated shelter.
If any resistance is exhibited by the child/youth, the assigned CSW will be expected to assist PAS transport staff to secure the child/youth in the vehicle.
PAS will transport the child/youth from the LAGMC or MLK HUB to the appropriate shelter or placement location.
PAS transporting staff will communicate any security incidents that occur during the transport to the designated shelter to the PAS SCSW and to the assigned CSW via email.
Report any safety incidents to the supervisor as soon as possible.
Regional SCSW Responsibilities:
Review the case/referral with the CSW for safety alerts or other documented safety concerns regarding the child/youth. This may include reviewing any documented history on court orders, restraining orders, criminal history, previous dangerous interactions, etc.
If CSW is unavailable, consult with PAS supervisor regarding the intake information or circumstance surrounding the intake of the child/youth.
Consult with staff about developing a plan to address all safety issues, if any are identified.
Decide whether additional staff is needed to address the safety issues.
Be available to the CSW to address any unforeseen circumstances that may occur during the transport of the child/youth to the TSCF, during the medical clearance, and during the preparation of the transport of the child/youth to the designated shelter.
Identify a backup supervisor and/or designated personnel to be available, as needed.
If necessary, be prepared to address the TSCF shelter if they require special accommodation.
Provide staff support information to impacted staff.
Develop a plan of action with the management team/supervisor, and any other appropriate staff to prevent future crises and to ensure safety.
PAS SCSW Responsibilities:
Ensure all required intake packet/documents have been received.
Conduct a telephone interview with regional CSW/SCSW to ensure the information submitted on the intake packet is current and accurate.
Inquire about the child/youth’s medication status (This includes having the PMA or parent/legal guardian signed affidavit that consents to medication available prior to transport.)
Inform regional staff if the child/youth is on the “not allowed to be cleared” list.
If the child/youth is on the “not allowed to be cleared” list, advise the regional CSW to take the child/youth to the LAGMC emergency room, to another HUB, or another medical location.
Submit a pre-approval request to the designated shelter (shelter that is most appropriate based on the child/youth’s intake information, behavioral needs, medical needs, etc.).
Once approval is granted for acceptance into shelter care, notify the regional office.
Communicate and plan for any special accommodation needed for acceptance to the shelter to the regional CSW/SCSW prior to the youth arriving.
Once the child/youth is medically cleared, transportation will be coordinated to the designated shelter.
Alert regional staff of any safety incidents that may have occurred during the transport.
Safety Precautions During Transportation of Children/Youth
Staff are not expected to place themselves in danger or at risk while transporting a child/NMD. If the situation arises when staff do not feel safe completing a transport, discuss these issues with the supervisor to explore options, including coming up with an alternative plan (i.e. rescheduling the transport, adding additional staff to assist, giving the child/NMD other options, etc.).
All DCFS employees/drivers, who operate County vehicles or their private vehicles (i.e., Mileage Permittees) on County business must comply with all vehicle safety and operating laws and regulations adopted by the State of California and follow all the rules and safety procedures outlined in Management Directive (MD) 09-03, Vehicle Loss Program and MD 12-01, County Vehicle Policy.
It is recommended that staff attend and successfully complete approved defensive driver training courses before driving on County business, such as the trainings offered on Talent Works titled “Defensive Driver Training” and “Defensive Driving-Safe Driving.”
Drivers must review the Vehicle Loss Program (MD 09-03) policy for information on responsibilities while managing and/or driving a county vehicle. The “Defensive Driver Training” is a prerequisite to be approved to use a county vehicle to transport. Refer to the County Vehicle Policy (MD 12-01) for information and procedures, when opting to use a county-owned vehicle to transport children/NMDs, as applicable.
DCFS staff who are issued a cellular phone for business use shall not use a hand-held cellular phone, send text messages or check email while driving. Staff must safely pull off to the side of the road and completely stop the vehicle before placing or accepting calls and before sending or receiving text messages or emails. If accepting a call is unavoidable and pulling over is not an option, staff are expected to use a hands-free device and limit the call time. For additional information on cellular phone use, refer to MD 16-01, Use of Cellular Phones.
Staff should not transport children with special health care needs. Children with special health care needs are 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. Non-emergency transportation is available for children with special health care needs and must be coordinated by Medical Case Management Services Intake Staff. For additional guidelines and procedures refer to Placing Children with Special Health Care Needs.
Designated DCFS Staff (CSW/HSA) Responsibilities
Upon receiving the assignment, discuss any safety concerns with the assigned supervisor and formulate a plan to address these, including the need for additional staff to assist with the transport, if needed.
Plan for accommodations for children with medical needs and history of medical needs. Ensure that any medication is available for the child during transportation and that the medication is in a safe location. Medication should be in a prescription container and labeled with identifying information.
Primary CSW only: Ensure that all parties are aware of the transportation details, including the child/NMD.
Submit a field itinerary to the assigned supervisor and ensure pre-approval is obtained.
Ensure the vehicle is in good running order and safe to drive.
Inspect the interior of the vehicle to confirm seat belts are in good working order, deploy child safely locks (when available), deploy power window lock switches (when available), and confirm there is no contraband or dangerous items left by previous passengers.
Ensure any large objects are secured in case of an accident or any unforeseen circumstance.
If the transporter is using a county-owned vehicle, and there are any issues with the vehicle after inspection, report the issues to the direct supervisor as well as the Office Vehicle Coordinator, as per MD 12-01, County Vehicle Policy.
Prior to transporting the child, ensure receiving proper contact information for the people who will be receiving the child.
Upon arrival to the designated location where the transport will take place, walk to the door and confirm the identity of the child/NMD, and instruct the child/NMD on safety rules while riding in the vehicle (such as wearing a seatbelt and not unbuckling the car seat).
Determine if the child/NMD is safe to transport (screen behaviors such as mood/temperament based on initial assessment, and ensure physical health is stable).
Talk to all parties present picking up the child/NMD.
If the child/NMD is not safe to transport or declines to be transported, contact the supervisor to come up with an alternative plan that best meets the child/NMDs needs in a safe manner.
If the child/ NMD has personal property they are bringing with them during the transport, ensure to place all the personal property in the trunk of the vehicle/ back of the van/SUV.
Open the door of the vehicle, instruct the child/NMD where to sit (based on age, needs, and history, if applicable) and confirm that they have a secure seatbelt.
It is strongly recommended that a child/NMD who has a history of volatile behavior be seated directly behind the passenger.
If additional staff is needed to assist with transport for safety reasons, it is strongly recommended that one staff member should sit in the back, behind the driver, with the child/NMD when possible.
Obey all traffic laws while driving.
Do not stop for gas, food, or for any other reason unless it is emergent and/or appropriate.
The child/ NMD is not to be left unattended in the vehicle.
If the transporter is using a county-owned vehicle, report any issues related to the vehicle to the direct supervisor, as well as to the Office Vehicle Coordinator, as per MD 12-01,County Vehicle Policy.
Supervisor Responsibilities
Review the case/referral with the designated staff for safety alerts or other documented safety concerns regarding the family. This may include reviewing any documented history on court orders, restraining orders, criminal history, previous dangerous interactions, etc.
Review and approve the transportation assignment/field itinerary submitted by staff, prior to the transport taking place.
If there is a child/NMD with known behavioral or medical issues, work with the staff to come up with a plan to best meet their needs, including deciding whether another staff needs to assist with transportation.
Be available to staff for consultation and confirm an emergency communication number is ready to be utilized in case of an emergency.
Identify a backup supervisor and/or designated personnel to be available, as needed. Communicate all transportation safety plans to the backup supervisor so all parties are aware and prepared.
If any safety concerns are reported, together with the staff, develop a safety plan to address those concerns.
It is mandatory that Transportation Workers attend and successfully complete an approved defensive driver training course before driving on County business, such as the trainings offered on Talent Works titled “Defensive Driver Training” and “Defensive Driving-Safe Driving”.
Perform a vehicle inspection at the county approved park site to ensure vehicle is in good running order and safe to drive.
Inspect the interior of the vehicle to confirm seat belts are in good working order, deploy child safely locks, and confirm there is no contraband or dangerous items left by previous passengers.
Check County cell/email and confirm that assignment has not changed.
Route the most efficient course using the assigned GPS.
Upon arrival at the designated location where the transport will take place,
Walk to the door and confirm identity of child/NMD.
Confirm with the caregiver that someone will be there to receive the child/NMD after the court hearing.
A NMD cannot be left alone at placement without prior written verification by their assigned CSW.
If the caregiver is not available or cannot be reached, the child/NMD will be dropped off at the CSW’s office. The CSW will be notified when this happens.
Instruct the child /NMD on safety rules while riding in the vehicle.
Determine if the child/NMD is safe to transport (screen behaviors such as mood/temperament based on initial assessment, and ensure physical health is stable).
Talk to all parties present picking up the child/NMD.
If the child/NMD is not safe to transport or declines to be transported, contact the supervisor to come up with an alternative plan that best meets the child/NMDs needs in a safe manner.
No personal property to be transported with youth (no purse, no cell phone, no food, no toys, etc.)
Open the door of the vehicle, instruct the child/NMD where to sit (based on age, needs, and history, if applicable) and confirm that they have secured the seatbelt.
Obey all traffic laws while driving.
Do not stop for gas, food, or for any other reason unless it is emergent.
The child/NMD is not to be left unattended in the vehicle.
Maintain communication with the Transportation Worker that is transporting, by phone, if needed.
Monitor vehicle if needed via vehicle tracking application.
Be available in the event of an emergency (i.e. call law enforcement, call placement staff, inform court if delayed, assign additional staff to rendezvous if needed for safety or to pick up children/NMD if vehicle inoperable).
When incidents are reported by staff, ensure appropriate parties are informed, including caregiver, court, etc. Call placement staff, inform court if delayed, assign additional staff to rendezvous if needed for safety or to pick up children/NMD if vehicle inoperable.
Call 911 if necessary.
Call a tow truck if needed.
Ensure that appointments are made for scheduled maintenance.
Safety Precautions While in the Office - General Office Safety Precautions
Designated DCFS Staff Responsibilities
All visitors should check in at the main reception prior to entering the work site. Use the identification badge provided only for entry of self and other known employees into secured areas of the office. Do not allow clients or unknown visitors to enter or walk through the building unescorted.
If anticipating to meet with a known/suspected volatile client, consider scheduling a visit at a more secure setting, to include another DCFS office, law enforcement agency, etc.
Always wear an ID badge displayed above the waist in all County work sites.
Never leave exit doors open (including stairwell doors). An open exit door is easy access for unauthorized entry.
For CSWs: Do not plan an office interview with a client after regular business hours or on weekends without designated management approval.
Avoid leaving keys, wallet or purse unattended at any assigned workspaces. Utilize locked drawers to secure personal items or items of value.
Avoid working alone in the office after regular working hours when security personnel are not available. If it becomes necessary to work after hours, obtain appropriate approval from management.
When leaving the office late, after hours, or after meeting with a volatile client, have a safety plan in place, such as being escorted by security or having a colleague/supervisor/ DCFS personnel on the phone while leaving the worksite.
If a crisis situation in the office escalates during or after working hours, be aware of how to reach out for assistance whether that be notifying security personnel, management, a supervisor, a colleague in the office, panic buttons in interview rooms, SOS button on iPhone, etc.
For HSA/CSW: If necessity arises to bring a child/youth inside the work area and child/youth escalates, secure escort to have the child returned back to the lobby/client room outside the secure work area.
If a child/youth is already exhibiting escalating behaviors prior to entry into the office, they should not be allowed inside secured working areas.
If any safety issues come up, consult with the assigned supervisor (or the duty supervisor, if the assigned supervisor is unavailable), when safe to do so, and advise them of the safety issues.
Supervisor Responsibilities
For any planned visits with clients at the office, review the case/referral with the designated staff for safety alerts or other documented safety concerns regarding the family.
Consult with staff about developing a plan to address all safety issues, if any are identified.
Decide whether additional staff need to assist to address the safety issues.
Be available to staff for consultation, confirm the emergency communication number is ready to be utilized in case of an emergency, and confirm staff communicate with Office Security staff, as needed.
Identify a backup supervisor and/or designated personnel to be available, as needed.
Provide staff support information to impacted staff.
Develop a plan of action with the management team/supervisor, and any other appropriate staff to prevent future crises and to ensure safety.
Safety Precautions While in the Office - Using Interview Rooms
CSW Responsibilities
Clients should not be invited into the employee work areas and should only be interviewed in designated interview rooms.
Before an interview with a potentially volatile client, develop a Plan of Action with the supervisor. The plan should include the office security staff and decisions about:
When the supervisor is to be notified
If another staff member can attend the interview for support
Inform Office Security staff of the potentially dangerous client so they can be on alert.
Use of panic buttons, as applicable. Most panic buttons are located near the door, next to the light switches. If there are no panic buttons available, have a contact on the phone ready to reach out to (supervisor) for immediate response/engagement.
Prior to meeting or interviewing clients:
Review the referral/case for any case alert and safety issues.
Prepare the interview room in advance. The room should not have any objects that might be potential weapons to a client.
When interviewing a client in an interview room located in the office:
Be positioned closest to the exit to avoid being trapped in the room should a safety issue arise.
Contact security personnel or have them on standby when needed.
If any safety issues come up, consult with the supervisor (or the duty supervisor, if the assigned supervisor is unavailable), when safe to do so, and advise them of the safety issues.
Supervisor Responsibilities
Review the case/referral with the designated staff for safety alerts or other documented safety concerns regarding the family.
Consult with staff about developing a plan to address all safety issues, if any are identified.
Decide whether additional staff is needed to address the safety issues.
Be available to staff for consultation and confirm the emergency communication number is ready to be utilized in case of an emergency.
Identify a backup supervisor and/or designated personnel to be available, as needed.
Provide staff support information to impacted staff.
Develop a plan of action with the management team/supervisor, and any other appropriate staff to prevent future crises and to ensure safety.
Safety Precautions for Monitoring Family Time
When planning for staff-supervised family time encounters, DCFS staff should adhere to policy and procedures outlined on the Family Time policy. Planning includes consideration of safety for all parties involved. It is important to assess and plan for any risk factors, including, but not limited to:
Existing court orders (when applicable), including restrictions based on any active restraining orders (for cases involving a history of intimate partner violence
Medical, mental health, behavioral, or developmental needs experienced by child(ren)/youth
Whether the family has a history of parental abduction and/or are considered a flight risk
Whether the participating parent(s)/child(ren)/other persons have a history of violent/volatile behaviors.
Note for CSWs: Family time should be arranged to occur as frequently as possible and in as natural a setting as possible, imposing only conditions that are necessary to protect the child's well-being. If safety concerns are identified in the planning of supervised family time, CSWs should consider scheduling the family time at a location to maximize security, such as a DCFS office, visiting center, law enforcement station, public location such as a mall, foster family agency, etc.
Determine the logistics of the supervised family time request, including, but not limited to, the location, family members/children that will be present, travel and supervision time, whether the staff member will need to transport children, special needs of the children/family, vital contact information for all parties, etc.
If the monitor will be an HSA or another CSW not assigned to the referral/case, the assigned CSW/SCSW shall communicate and plan for any pertinent safety concerns with the monitor who will supervise the family time.
Pertinent safety information also includes sharing and planning for medication, acute/chronic medical needs, behavioral challenges and/or other mental health/developmental needs for the child, if any.
For children with required 2:1 supervision, accommodations should also be made for planned family time. Information about 2:1 supervision can be found on court minute orders, the DCFS 4213 (Special Placement or 1-on-1 Services Request) and/or the DCFS 6017-A (Placement Referral Form).
Reach out to all parties to let them know the supervised family time plan, what to expect, and any special rules that need to be followed.
The DCFS 5120, Monitor’s Guidelines for Supervised Family Time can be used as a tool for preparing all parties for family time.
The assigned CSW is responsible to ensure that the supervised parties are given the DCFS 5121, Visitor’s Guidelines for Supervised Family Time, when planning for a family time schedule.
Ensure contact information is exchanged with the caregiver in case of emergent or unexpected changes to the family time plan.
Make sure all parties are aware of who is and is not cleared to be present during the family time event and let them know that the family time may be terminated early or rescheduled if unexpected parties are brought to the family time.
Supervised parties should not make phone calls to other parties and have others speak to the children during the family time event as this may violate confidentiality.
Inquire if the child(ren) has any medical health issues that may impact others, such as illnesses. If the child(ren) are ill, the visit may need to be rescheduled.
If, during the supervised family time, any safety issues arise, and the safety of the child(ren) or the monitor is at risk, family time may be suspended or terminated.
If an unsafe situation arises:
For emergencies, terminate the family time and contact 911/law enforcement.
For non-emergency situations, terminate the family time, and when safe to do so, consult with a supervisor to discuss the next steps.
For Primary CSWs: When safe to do so, inform all parties the reason the family time needed to be terminated. Determine expectations for future visits to prevent the same issue.
Report any safety issues that come up during the encounter to the supervisor, and document in the contact notebook on CWS/CMS.
If needed during after-hours, the supervisor or staff can contact ERCP (by phone at 213-639-4500 or by email at ERCP-Regional_Assist@dcfs.lacounty.gov) for additional support and ask to speak to the duty ERCP SCSW.
Supervisor Responsibilities
Review the case/referral for safety information including medication, acute/chronic medical needs and/or behavioral challenges or other mental health/developmental needs for the child/NMD.
Review the case/referral for safety alerts, court orders, restraining orders, and history of volatility for the supervised parties.
Consult staff about developing a plan for the supervised family time to address all safety issues, if any.
Decide whether additional staff is needed to address transportation and/or safety issues during the scheduled family time.
If the monitor will be an HSA or another staff member who is not assigned to the case/referral, communicate all pertinent information about the family to them.
Be available for consultation or ensure there is a backup SCSW/personnel for consultation in case of an emergency.
If needed during after-hours, the supervisor or staff can contact ERCP (by phone at 213-639-4500 or by email at ERCP-Regional_Assist@dcfs.lacounty.gov) for additional support and ask to speak to the duty ERCP SCSW.
Provide staff support information to impacted staff.
Develop a plan of action with the management team/supervisor, and any other appropriate staff to prevent future crises and to ensure safety.
Safety Precautions While Visiting Families at Adult Detention Facilities
In efforts to meet the varying needs of the families serviced by DCFS, there may be instances when visiting family members at detention facilities may be necessary. When this occurs, preparing by planning ahead is the best way to ensure smooth and safe interaction. Different Federal, State, or County detention facilities will have different rules and safety guidelines for visiting inmates at their facilities. Always check with the designated detention facility for their guidelines.
Call the designated facility to verify that the inmate is at the designated location, that they do not have any restrictions for visitation, and that the facility is not on lockdown.
Lockdown is a term used within the jail when all inmate movement has seized due to safety and/or security reasons. Facility personnel do not have any prior knowledge of the lockdown and are unaware how long the lockdown with be in effect.
Ensure to have proper identification (ID), such as the county badge.
In addition to a county badge, some facilities will also require additional forms of identification. This includes another valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license. Contact the facility for facility-specific proper forms of ID required. The Custody Operations website provides contact information specific to Los Angeles County jails.
Ensure to dress appropriately, as all detention facilities have strict dress codes.
The DCFS Dress Code Policy should be followed at all times, including when visiting detention facilities.
Ensure to wear closed-toed shoes.
Park vehicle in the designated detention facility parking lot and secure all unnecessary personal belongings in the vehicle.
Visit the detention facility’s website for information as to any applicable parking fees prior to arrival.
Bring minimal personal belongings.
All belongings are subject to being searched.
Electronic devices, including cell phones, smart watches, recording devices, etc. are not permitted at detention facilities (absent a court order) and should be secured in the vehicle.
If using a cell phone to open the vehicle, consider bringing the physical car key for the detention facility visit, as cell phones are not permitted inside the detention facility. One car key is allowed.
Some facilities have small lockers where personal belongings can be kept.
Only business-related documents are allowed within the detention facilities. If taking any business-related documents, ensure that there are no staples or paperclips attached.
It is recommended to ask to speak to the Watch Commander prior to seeing the client when taking documents, to prevent any issues.
All documents are subject to being searched and are normally reviewed to prevent contraband.
Pens are allowed at the discretion of the deputy. Contact the deputy if the client needs to sign any documents.
When arranging family time between a parent and a child/youth at a detention facility:
Information on developing a Family Time Plan (FTP) with incarcerated parents can be found on Family Time.
To prepare for the visit, contact the facility to determine what the particular facility requires to secure permission for the child to visit, who can accompany the child to visits, and how frequently the child is allowed to visit the parent. Staff should also inquire as to the facility’s policies regarding dress code, gifts, and food.
If possible, arrange family time during professional visitation hours.
Upon arrival, if the detention facility has the option, request for the family time to occur in an attorney room. Attorney rooms have speakers which can facilitate monitoring conversations between the parent and the child.
Never leave the minor unattended.
Follow the designated detention facility’s lockdown procedures, when applicable.
Report any safety issues that come up during the encounter to the deputy, and when safe to do so, to the supervisor.
Supervisor Responsibilities
Be available to staff for consultation and confirm the emergency communication number is ready to be utilized in case of an emergency.
Identify a backup supervisor and/or designated personnel to be available, as needed.
DCFS 632B, Field Itinerary DCFS 4213, Special Placement or 1-on-1 Services Request DCFS 5120, Monitor’s Guidelines for Supervised Family Time DCFS 5121 (Spanish) Visitor’s Guidelines for Supervised Family Time DCFS 6017-A, Placement Referral Form
0400-504.00, Family Time 0070-548.05, Emergency Response Referrals Alleging Abuse In Out-of-Home Care Regarding Children Who Are Under DCFS Supervision 0070-548.06, Emergency Response Referrals Alleging Abuse of Children Who Are Under DCFS Supervision and Residing in the Home of a Parent 0070-570.10, Obtaining Warrants and/or Removal Orders 0080-506.16, Selecting and/or Arranging for Appropriate Services for Incarcerated, Institutionalized, Detained or Deported Parents 0600-505.10, Placing Children with Special Health Care Needs 1200-500.20, Child Passenger Restraint/Car Seat Requirement
California Labor Code (LAB) Section 6400 – Requires the employer to provide a safe and healthy place of employment for employees. Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA)- OSHA's mission statement is to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for workers by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education, and assistance to businesses to meet those standards. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health- Defines workplace violence as the act or threat of violence, ranging from verbal abuse to physical assault, directed toward people at work or on duty.
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 has served all 58 California counties since 2023. The implementation of CalSAWS merged California’s most recent three (3) county-level consortia welfare systems and supports 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 replaced the LEADER Replacement System (LRS), which had 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.