How to Survive as a Child Welfare Social Worker

HOW TO SURVIVE AS A

Child Welfare Social Worker

MICHAELLA CONTEH

How to Survive as a Child Welfare Social Worker

Copyright © 2021

Michaella Conteh

All Rights Reserved.

No portion of this publication may be reproduced, stored in an electronic system, or transmitted in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise) without written permission from the author.Brief quotations may be used in literary reviews.

Paperback ISBN 13: 978-1-7373683-1-1

eBook ISBN 13: 978-1-7373683-0-4

This work is for informational purposes only. Every attempt has been made to verify the accuracy of the information at the time of publication. The author will not be held liable or claim accountability for any loss or injuries. Use, view, and implement the strategies contained herein at your own risk. The author disclaims any responsibility for the inaccuracy of the content, including but not limited to errors or omissions.

For information and bulk ordering, contact:

Michaella Conteh

[email protected]

Dedication

This book is dedicated to my Social Worker colleagues and friends who are working tirelessly in the field to ensure the children are safe and that the families receive the best support while working alongside the Child Welfare System.

This book is also dedicated to those aspiring to become a Social Worker in the Child Welfare field.

Table of Contents

Title Page

Introduction

Chapter 1: What is Child Welfare?

Family Reunification

Family Maintenance

Permanent Planning

Legal Guardianship

Adoption

Non-Minor Dependent

Chapter 2: Types of Jobs as a Child Welfare Social Worker

Child Abuse and Neglect Call Center

Emergency Response

Dependency Investigation / Court Unit

Family Reunification, Family Maintenance, or Permanency Planning/Continuing Unit

Adoption Department

Placement Department

Resource Family Approval Unit

Chapter 3: Organization

Chapter 4: Resources in Child Welfare

Chapter 5: 10 Tips to Survive as a Child Welfare Social Worker

In Closing…

Child Welfare Social Worker Chart

About the Author

Introduction

Child Welfare Social Worker is a title typically applied to Child Protective Services (CPS) professionals. A Child Welfare Social Worker protects children from abuse and neglect or removes children from high-risk homes where they have experienced severe neglect or physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. To be very clear: Child Welfare Social Workers do not remove children because they are poor or do not have housing.

As a Child Welfare Social Worker, there have been instances where the families are homeless, going from one hotel to another, and so on. Homelessness is not a reason to remove children. Conversely, if there are concerns about drug use around the children or children being left alone for days without adult supervision, CPS will protect the children. That is especially notable because I have often encountered people who have asked, Why can’t CPS give that money to the parents who are poor rather than give it to foster parents?

As a Child Welfare Social Worker, you will be tasked with constantly assisting children and their families by:

         Resolving conflicts.

         Conducting ongoing assessments.

         Working with various service providers within the community.

         Working with the whole family unit.

         Providing the best resources for the children, youth, and families.

My reason for writing this book is that I have observed how many Social Workers who start working for CPS are not provided with a guide detailing what to expect as a Child Welfare Social Worker. Yes, you learn about social work when you attend undergrad or grad school. However, the reality of the work is often hidden and not discussed.

I desire to provide Social Workers who are considering entering the Child Welfare field