Mendocino County Grand Jury
• 2001-2002
Family and Children’s Services and Parents Within the Department of Social Services (dss), the Family and Children’s
⚠️ 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 41 findings
F1
Parents and their attorneys reported that FCS workers abuse the power they have both by intimidating parents and by not investigating sufficiently. FCS staff stated that decisions they make are inherently subjective and that whenever FCS takes action, it is with the intent to protect children.
No recommendations for this finding
F2
The lack of adequate communication and of written guidelines contributes to misunderstandings between Social Workers and parents.
No recommendations for this finding
F3
FCS has no policy or consistency about how and when written information is given to parents.
No recommendations for this finding
F4
Even though FCS policy is to give a packet of information when children are detained, and some staff report following that policy, all parents interviewed stated that they did not receive any written information.
No recommendations for this finding
F5
FCS has no policy requiring Social Workers to give parents written information upon initial Emergency Response investigation.
No recommendations for this finding
F6
FCS does not document receipt of written information given to parents.
No recommendations for this finding
F7
The County has no advocate similar to the Mental Health Patient Rights Advocate for parents involved with the FCS system. Parents do not have a source for information or support. A Social Worker has a responsibility to protect the children; at the same time a Social Worker must help the parent and family, creating a conflict. Often, this situation leaves the parent with no one for support.
No recommendations for this finding
F8
Once involved in the Juvenile Court system, a parent may have a court- appointed or private attorney. Parents reported that private attorneys have stretched parents’ financial means to the point of bankruptcy and that court-appointed attorneys appear to be too busy to adequately serve the parent.
No recommendations for this finding
F9
The Grand Jury heard conflicting information about specific events and conversations from parent witnesses and FCS witnesses. Parents requested audio recording so that conversations could be verified, but Social Workers refused. An FCS administrator stated that there is no written policy regarding audio or video recording of interviews; in practice, if both parties agree, interviews can be recorded.
No recommendations for this finding
F10
Other DSS Divisions use a client feedback survey form. FCS does not use a similar survey form for parents. Case Plans and Planning
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F11
When a child is removed from a home, FCS must develop a case plan within 30 days. (Welfare & Institutions Code §16501) The plan must state what a parent must do to reunify the family and concurrently, the plan must provide plans for the child if reunification fails.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F12
Case plan requirements for reunification were inconsistent; individual social workers had broad latitude to require parent compliance.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F13
Social Workers stated that FCS administration did not provide adequate information and support to Social Workers about changes in legal requirements for case planning.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F14
FCS has developed a draft for County-wide guidelines for standardizing the case-planning policies and procedure.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F15
Welfare & Institutions Code 16501.1(f) states: “Parents and legal guardians shall have an opportunity to review the case plan, sign it whenever possible, and then shall receive a copy of the plan. In any voluntary service or placement agreement, the parent or legal guardians shall be required to review and sign the case plan. Whenever possible, parents and legal guardians shall participate in the development of the case plan.”
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F16
Parents interviewed stated they were not involved in developing their case plans. FCS has no specific document for parent involvement in the case planning process, but administrators state they follow State Division 31 regulations.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F17
FCS does not have a written County procedure to inform social workers how to involve parents in development of case plans, even though the signature page for case plans has a line for parents to sign indicating that they have participated in development of the plan. When parents’ refuse to sign a plan, FCS has an extensive written procedure. FCS developed the procedure after a State review indicated that non- response to a mailed case plan could not be assumed to be refusal of the plan. (Child Welfare Services Information Bulletin: 1:01)
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F18
Parents interviewed stated that FCS unfairly changed case plans during the process of reunification. Social Workers told parents that they must repeat classes even though the parents had received certificates of completion for the classes. In other case plans, Social Workers added new requirements as the process continued. Many times, the standard became higher to get the children back than the standard that had them removed.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F19
Social Workers stated that case plans need to be flexible, that situations change. In the case planning process, Social Workers discover new information.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F20
Parents reported that if they did not agree with the case plan or were contentious, the Social Worker used the parents’ views as marks against reunification. Complaint Process
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F21
FCS provided a DSS general complaint procedure, “How to Handle Complaints,” Training Guidelines 1999. The information, which includes “Mendocino County Department of Social Services Complaint Form,” is in the hall by the DSS personnel office. The complaint form is not posted in the public lobbies. FCS, in practice, does not use the procedure, even though administrators report the complaint form is being used. Some Social Workers testified that they provided the form if a verbal complaint had been received. Others were unaware of a complaint procedure. No County-wide standard system is in place.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F22
Most complaints are handled informally; verbal complaints are directed to the worker’s supervisor.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F23
FCS advises complainants to talk to the supervisor of the offending Social Worker. There is no third party to file a complaint with. Complainants do not have anonymity in the complaint process, thereby giving rise to fear of reprisal from the person being complained about. FCS does not have a separate complaint process for parents and other individuals receiving or providing services.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F24
FCS workers testified that there were complaint forms in the public lobby. When the Grand Jury visited the Ukiah lobby in the Fall 2001, there was a box that stated “Complaint Form.” There were blank complaint forms in Spanish, none in English. The form was for people alleging discrimination, not for any other possible complaints. In April 2002, there were no complaint forms. In the Fort Bragg office only the State brochure (in Spanish) was in the lobby.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F25
The DSS suggestion box in the DSS main lobby is available for clients and employees to present suggestions to the DSS Community Advisory Committee. No standard forms are by the box in Ukiah or Fort Bragg. The Willits office did have blank suggestion forms.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F26
DSS keeps a log of discrimination complaints (a federal requirement), but neither DSS nor FCS track or keep a log of any other kind of verbal or written complaint or the disposition of complaints.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F27
FCS has a grievance procedure for Foster Care providers, PPL 2:96, but not for any other situations.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F28
The Grand Jury observed a pattern of parents stating FCS workers had not provided information regarding their rights to file a grievance or to complain.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F29
A pamphlet, “Grievance Review Policy,” MCDSS 1000 (New 12/97), is part of a packet the FCS administrators say is given to parents when a child is removed from a home. Social Workers and parents interviewed were not aware of this packet.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F30
FCS staff stated that the appropriate place for parents to present grievances regarding case information and plans is at Court appearances.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F31
Parents interviewed were unaware they could file a complaint with the State Department of Social Services; however FCS does provide “Your Rights Under California Welfare Programs,” upon request. The brochure outlines civil rights and state remedies, but does not give specific local information on how to file a complaint. Staffing & Training
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F32
Former and present inland FCS workers interviewed stated there is low morale among social workers and assistant social workers due to job stresses, low pay, and high turnover. Coast FCS workers report less turnover and higher morale.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F33
Social Workers testified that supervisors do not always look at the complexity of the cases when analyzing case loads. Some cases require more time on the part of the Social Worker
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F34
Department-wide Social Worker turnover has been over 30% annually for the past three years, with a higher relative percentage in case- carrying Social Workers.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F35
FCS managers testified there is a statewide, as well as local, shortage of social workers. Educational facilities available for training Social Worker I are limited. Basic courses for Associate of Arts degree are available at Mendocino College and College of the Redwoods, but advanced training must be completed at distant campuses.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F36
FCS staff reports that they must deal on a regular basis with clients from minority groups who often lack English language skills. FCS lacks bilingual social workers and staff.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F37
FCS has not been successful recruiting Native Americans, even though Mendocino County has a large Native population.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F38
FCS has difficulty recruiting and retaining skilled administrative assistants because of the workload and low pay.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
G. FCS train all Social Workers on use of the new guidelines for case planning. (Findings 12 -14) H. FCS stress to all County Social Workers the need for consistency in case plan requirements. (Findings 12 -14) I. FCS develop and use a checklist to involve parents in the case planning process. (Findings 15 - 19) J. FCS adopt a policy that informs parents step by step of their status. Develop a procedure and a form with incremental approvals, and an incremental approval checklist. K. If a case plan changes, FCS provide written explanation to parents (before a Court hearing), stating the reason why and involving parents in the change of the plan. (Findings 18, 19) L. FCS continue to train Social Workers in standards for removal and reunification of children. (Findings 10 - 20) M. FCS establish and follow procedures for apprising parents of their rights. (Findings 21 - 31) N. DSS ensure that written complaint information and forms are available in DSS and FCS public lobbies. (Findings 21, 24, 25) O. FCS establish and use a complaint log that includes the disposition of complaints. (Finding 26) P. FCS expand the brochure “Grievance Review Policy” to include grievance procedures for all aspects of client/FCS interactions. (Finding 30) Q. FCS Supervisors consider case-load complexity in assigning Social Worker case-load. (Finding 33) R. The County and DSS establish a coordinated Social Worker recruiting program among the College of Redwoods, Mendocino College, and local high schools with more outreach to Latino and Native American populations. (Findings 34-37) S. The DSS Director request that Mendocino College and the College of the Redwoods begin Social Worker Assistant programs and that Sonoma State and Dominican College satellite campuses begin Social Worker programs. (Finding 35) T. Board of Supervisors re-evaluate the salary schedule within FCS. (Findings 32 - 35, 39) U. The County fill the vacant positions. (Findings 38, 40) Comment Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director Family and Children Services Director
F39
Low pay and a poor benefits package relative to other counties make it difficult to recruit experienced Social Workers. Experienced workers are attracted to other counties and agencies, which pay more, often have signing bonuses, and have better working conditions.
No recommendations for this finding
F40
The FCS training position was vacant for several months during the past year. FCS now has an employee functioning as a trainer one-half of the time.
No recommendations for this finding
F41
FCS Supervisors train new Social Workers and FCS sends some Social Workers to UC Davis for specific training.
No recommendations for this finding
Comments 1
-
CO1Public awareness of child abuse and neglect issues is lacking. More outreach by government to the citizenry regarding these issues is needed. Substance abuse is involved in many instances of child abuse and neglect. More public awareness of substance abuse and the harm it causes to families is needed. The County Child Abuse Prevention is not providing information to the public. Family and Children’s Services prepares an annual report to the Board of Supervisors summarizing child welfare issues in the County. The Board of Supervisors should distribute this report to media and all professionals involved with children and make it available to the general public. The problem of unclear and changing requirements for family reunification is a complicated issue involving the judgment and expertise of the professionals involved. FCS is working toward standardizing these requirements throughout the County as much as possible. The Grand Jury encourages FCS in this effort. Several witnesses alluded to the lack of adequate foster care in the County. This problem has been visited by the Grand Jury previously. Perhaps it is time to do so again. Response Required Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Response Requested Department of Social Services Director 2001–2002 Mendocino County Grand Jury Final Report 51 Family and Children Services Director 2001–2002 Mendocino County Grand Jury Final Report 52