This course answers questions probation staff may have about the Child Welfare System. Child Welfare and Law details how the Child Welfare System works. It may be helpful for DPOs to understand the mission of Child Welfare, its goals, and the laws that dictate its services and functions. Learning the laws that dictate child welfare services may inform the way staff interact with families. The session makes the programs clear: from cash aid (stimulus) from the county, or health insurance to support families. The course provides an overview of State initiatives like Integrated Core Practice Model, ongoing oversight of Child Placement in Short-Term Residential, Treatment Facilities, Child and Family Team Meetings, and the Child Adolescent Needs and Strengths Tool required by both Probation and Child Welfare. These initiatives encourage ongoing collaboration and partnership between Probation and Child Welfare that supports eligible families. Examining biases that may be present and how those biases can impact interactions are examined “head on” with families and their ability to succeed. These focus areas give support to probation in understanding Child Welfare and all the benefits that are awarded to eligible families.
