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Kinship Caregivers and the Child Welfare System
Series: Factsheets for Families |
Author(s):
Child Welfare Information Gateway
|
Year Published: 2010 |
A number of grandparents and other relatives find themselves serving as parents for children whose own parents are unable to care for them. Sometimes, the arrangement (referred to as "kinship care") is an informal, private arrangement between the parents and relative caregivers; in other situations, the child welfare system is involved. This factsheet is designed to help kinship caregivers—including grandparents, aunts and uncles, and other relatives caring for children—work effectively with the child welfare system.
The child welfare system varies from State to State, but it generally includes public agencies such as departments of social services or family and children's services. These State agencies often work with private child welfare agencies to provide services for families and children. Caseworkers at these agencies are required by law to ensure the safety, well-being, and permanent living arrangements of children. Their responsibilities include investigating reports of child abuse and neglect and arranging for services for children and families.
Table of Contents
This factsheet addresses a number of topics relevant for kinship caregivers:
1 - Different Types of Kinship Care
2 - How the Child Welfare System Becomes Involved in Kinship Care
3 - What to Expect From the Child Welfare System
4 - Services
6 - Permanent Families for the Children
This material may be freely reproduced and distributed. However, when doing so, please credit Child Welfare Information Gateway.