The Connecticut DCF Voluntary Services Program is designed for children who have mental health and/or behavioral needs requiring services that the family does not otherwise have access to. It is a kinder and softer way that DCF helps families without accusing them of any wrongdoing or filing Neglect Petitions in the Juvenile Court to…
DCF Releases are always part of any Investigation. In fact, when Connecticut DCF comes calling, they always have plenty of Releases of Information and other Authorizations handy. As part of most DCF Investigations, they are looking for records from the pediatrician, the school(s) and any service providers like a therapists or counselors. They usually want…
DCF Investigations are usually triggered by a call to the DCF Hotline. Often a mandated reporter, like a counselor or school social worker, makes the call. During the call, a “Hotline Worker” will gather information to determine whether the case is serious enough to warrant opening a case. If a case is opened, it will…
DCF Service Agreements (also known as Safety Plans) are part of many Investigations. They are usually discussed during DCF’s initial home visit. The form itself is a one-page document that identifies a Safety Factor(s) and what the parent and the social worker will do to address that concern(s). Simply put, it is a written agreement…
The policy of Connecticut DCF is to protect the health and welfare of children. We must all agree that a child’s safety is paramount. To this end, there is a Hotline, which receives reports of suspected neglect and abuse. Anyone who makes a report in good faith and has reasonable grounds for making the report…
A mother who tragically lost her son in 2008 is attempting to pass a law allowing the public greater access to DCF records. Here is a summary: Mother petitions to change laws after son dies by babysitter – WFSB 3 Connecticut The proposal is excessively broad. Not only does it seek information about abusers…