Differential Response gives caseworkers freedom to use an alternative approach when investigating some reports of child abuse and neglect, according to the Supreme Court. That freedom helps keep families together and reduces the number of children placed in out-of-home care, all without compromising child safety. The program allows caseworkers to guide the family to local social service programs that might meet the child’s and the family’s needs.
“We are very excited,” said Jeff Centers, Butler County Children Services Director.
He added that competition was stiff for the $20,000 grant that will pay for program training.
While some aspects of the program is already implemented by children services, Differential Response will allow a different approach when addressing some cases, he said.
“Really what this is a way for us to work with some families differently,” Centers said, noting examples would be some domestic violence and neglect cases.
The program calls for the family to be more engaged in finding a solution so the behavior is not repeated.
“This is not for instances that rise to a criminal level,” Centers said.
Parents, children and caseworkers all have reported increased satisfaction with the Differential Response approach. In addition, because it reduces the number of children in out-of-home care, Differential Response saves taxpayers money, according to the Supreme Court.
Centers said Butler County will use existing personnel. Training is scheduled to begin in June with implication on Aug. 1.
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