Regulation .01 Purpose and Scope.

The purpose of Child Protective Services is to stop and prevent child abuse and neglect through the:

(1)

Investigation of child abuse and neglect;

(2)

Comprehensive assessment of safety, risk and service needs; and

(3)

Provision of services or service referrals for abused or neglected children and their families.

These regulations establish the appropriate protocols for local departments of social services to:

(1)

Accept reports of suspected child abuse or neglect;

(2)

Promptly determine whether to investigate a report or to initiate a comprehensive family assessment;

(3)

Complete a timely investigation or family assessment appropriate to the circumstances;

(4)

After an investigation, make a finding consistent with the law;

(5)

After conducting a family assessment, complete and distribute a written assessment addressing safety and risk; and

(6)

Create and maintain accurate reports and records that can serve as tools in providing services and in future involvement with the family.