The safety of children and youth is the primary focus of the child welfare system. Child welfare agencies provide services and supports to address safety concerns and reduce the risk of future harm, keeping families together whenever possible.
When a family comes to the attention of child welfare, various assessments of risk, safety, family functioning, and the impact of trauma are conducted. If there are safety concerns, caseworkers recommend services, but the decision about whether they are needed should be made jointly with the family. Caseworkers should involve the family and its support system while considering the many factors needed to achieve a balance between safety and risk.
The use of risk assessment tools can guide decision-making. Enhancing caregiver protective capacity while providing equitable services tailored to the family’s needs can help maximize children's safety.
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