⚠️ Translation Notice: This content has been automatically translated. The original English text is the official version. Translation may contain errors.
⚠️ Este contenido ha sido traducido automáticamente. El texto original en inglés es la versión oficial. La traducción puede contener errores.
Findings and Recommendations 9 findings
F1
The Grand Jury finds that:
The on-call duty rotated among all social workers and supervisors requires answering calls overnight, on holidays, and on weekends, which contributes to burnout.
No recommendations for this finding
F2
The Grand Jury finds that:
Implementation of the new Crisis Stabilization Unit should result in a higher level of screening after-hours incoming calls, resulting in fewer non-appropriate calls being referred to on-call social workers and supervisors.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1
During its initial six months of operation, the Department of Health and Human Services conduct a performance review of the Crisis Stabilization Unit regarding its effectiveness in handling after-hour calls to the Hotline. Results of the review to be reported to the Board of Supervisors no later than June 30, 2018.
F3
The Grand Jury finds that:
A full and proficient staff at Child Welfare Services contributes to handling referrals sooner and promotes opportunities for staff to have more effective interactions with families. 10
No recommendations for this finding
F4
The Grand Jury finds that:
The public is often hesitant to report suspected child abuse and neglect to the Hotline for fear children will be removed from their families, and therefore may not call in to voice their concerns for child safety.
No recommendations for this finding
F5
The Grand Jury finds that:
Napa Health and Human Services is not active enough in informing the public regarding all aspects of the Hotline.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2
Department of Health and Human Services develop a detailed plan of outreach to increase public awareness of the Hotline. This will include, but not be limited to, presentations to schools and places of worship, articles for local newspapers, and public service messages on local radio and TV stations, as well as updated written and online materials. Plan to be completed by January 31, 2018, with implementation thereafter.
F6
The Grand Jury finds that:
Technology capable of recording calls would be useful to CWS for training purposes and quality assurance.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3
Department of Health and Human Services evaluate technology currently in use, including the ability to record calls, track staff schedules, and accommodate off-site staffing. Upgrades determined to be worthwhile and cost effective are to be included in budget requests to the Board of Supervisors for Fiscal year 2018.
F7
The Grand Jury finds that:
Introducing technology allowing greater flexibility for CWS staff to work off-site would improve job efficiency and satisfaction.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3
Department of Health and Human Services evaluate technology currently in use, including the ability to record calls, track staff schedules, and accommodate off-site staffing. Upgrades determined to be worthwhile and cost effective are to be included in budget requests to the Board of Supervisors for Fiscal year 2018.
F8
The Grand Jury finds that:
After-hour calls regarding urgent child safety matters to Napa Child Welfare Workers living outside the County often result in longer response times.
No recommendations for this finding
F9
The Grand Jury finds that:
The high cost of housing is a major factor resulting in many Napa Child Welfare Workers living outside the county.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4
Napa County Board of Supervisors continue efforts to promote development of affordable housing within Napa County and show evidence of such action by means of public notice and/or documents by December 31, 2017. COMMMENDATION The Grand Jury commends Napa County Child Welfare Services for providing a culture of protection and support to the children and families of Napa. 11
Conclusions 1
-
CL1The Grand Jury inquiry has found a dedicated well-trained CWS staff that strives to fulfill its responsibilities in protecting children and rendering support to families. Given the multitude of issues that family and children face today, the Jury recognizes Napa County’s Child Welfare Services, including the Hotline, is poised to meet the challenges necessary to insure the health and safety of our children The Grand Jury respectfully submits the Findings and Recommendations below for consideration and implementation.