Child Welfare Case Management

SUMMARY

The Child Welfare Case Manager (CWCM) works directly with families that have been referred from the Department of Children and Families (DCF). The CWCM works to identify and assess the client and family needs due to alleged abuse or neglect, with the ultimate goal of achieving permanency. Under the supervision of the CWCM Supervisor, the CWCM evaluates, coordinates and ensures necessary services and/or treatment are provided;

completes required assessments; completes judicial paperwork; assists individuals and families by using such activities as delineating alternatives, problem solving by helping to articulate goals and providing needed information.

The Child Welfare Case Manager (CWCM) works directly with families that have been referred from the Department of Children and Families (DCF). The CWCM works to identify and assess the client and family needs due to alleged abuse or neglect, with the ultimate goal of achieving permanency. Under the supervision of the CWCM Supervisor, the CWCM evaluates, coordinates and ensures necessary services and/or treatment are provided;

completes required assessments; completes judicial paperwork; assists individuals and families by using such activities as delineating alternatives, problem solving by helping to articulate goals and providing needed information.

The CWCM must successfully complete the Florida Child Welfare Practice Pre-service Training, pass the examination and all field-based requirements while demonstrating proficiency in core competencies to achieve the Florida Certification Board’s Child Welfare Case Manager Certification within 1 year from completion of the Pre-service Training examination.

• Attend formal instruction (Phase I Child Welfare Practice Pre-service Training program).
• Upon successful completion of Phase I, enter Phase II which is a monitored field practice under close supervision and may include:
• Conduct child safety assessments.
• Assess client needs and develop Safety Plans, DCF case plans and visitation plans.
• Coordinate the delivery of services, plan referrals and linkages to clients and families.
• Monitor case plan task compliance and progress and evaluating reports from multiple service providers.
• Develop and maintain case and program documentation according to contract and agency standards (Family safety assessments, Progress Updates, Home Studies, progress notes, court paperwork, etc.);
• Prepare case/status reports and making recommendations/testifying at court or before other prescribed bodies regarding reunification, TPR or other permanency plans; appearing in court;
• Conduct diligent searches as required by Dependency laws.
• Coordinate services with other professionals and paraprofessionals.
• Conduct community outreach, as needed.
• Provide specialized services that may include detainment, interstate compact, post placement supervision, relative/non-relative caregiver home studies, court testimony, TPR, and JR staffing's;
• Provide support to children, caregivers and family members to assure stable placement and timely achievement of permanency.
• Assist family/caregivers in accessing subsidy, medical coverage and other needed services for children.
• Coordinate cases with supervisor, team members, providers, DCF and attorneys.
• Facilitate placement and independent living.
• Assist in removing and placing children.
• Assist in the facilitation of mediation staffing's for reunification, TPR and detainment.
• Arrange or provide transportation of clients when needed.
• Arrange for drug/alcohol screens, as necessary.
• Provide on call support as required or scheduled.
• Participate in the Quality Improvement process.
• Appear in court.