Phyllis Gilmore: Child welfare system is safe, a team effort
According to the latest finalized federal review, Kansas has one of the safest child welfare systems in the country – ranking second among the 50 states in the category of “children are first and foremost, protected from abuse and neglect.” This success is attributed to many individuals who make up the child welfare system in Kansas – including Kansas Department for Children and Families social workers, foster care contractors, foster parents, law enforcement, judges, guardians ad litem, court-appointed special advocates and those who make it a priority to report suspected cases of abuse and neglect.
Although less than 1 percent of children in Kansas are in foster care, each of these more than 6,500 children relies on this network of people to keep them safe. Without all involved working toward a common goal of protecting the child and minimizing trauma, the system will fail this young, innocent person who deserves more. And no one wants that to happen, ever.
The child welfare system is complex, and each case presents its own unique circumstances and challenges that are ever changing. Fortunately, decisions made to remove a child from his or her home are not made in a vacuum. They involve a step-by-step process that is meant to ensure the best interest of the child is served.
The process begins when a concerned citizen or mandated reporter calls the Kansas Protection Report Center. We receive about 65,000 calls to the hotline each year. Our trained staff assesses the case and determines if further investigation is warranted. From there, DCF will make necessary contact with law enforcement, the family and others involved.
If there is concern of immediate harm, law enforcement may take the child or children into protective custody. DCF does not have authority to remove a child from his or her home. This action can only be taken by law enforcement and the court.
From there, DCF will present its information to the district attorney, who will evaluate the evidence and who may take the case before the court. The judge will ultimately decide whether removal into foster care is warranted. DCF and its contractors then work quickly to achieve a permanency plan for the child – whether that’s reintegration with his or her family or adoption.
Our child welfare system is safe, but only because Kansans care. We urge you to continue to be vigilant. If you suspect abuse or neglect, don’t hesitate to call us at 1-800-922-5330.
Phyllis Gilmore is secretary of the Kansas Department for Children and Families.
This story was originally published January 27, 2016 at 6:02 PM with the headline "Phyllis Gilmore: Child welfare system is safe, a team effort."