What is a Child Protection Social Worker
A child protection social worker is tasked with the responsibility of helping children and families stay safe while navigating difficult times.
Most oftentimes, people associate a child protection social worker with their local state and Child Protective Services. It can be unsettling when people hear the term and are unaware of the intentions, responsibilities, and most often the end goal of family reunification and safety that a child protection social worker follows.
Here are the key points to understanding the job and duties of a child protection social worker and what it means if your family ends up working alongside them to navigate hardships. Keep in mind - there are state social workers and clinical social workers, and both can be beneficial to all families.
The Skillsets and Educational Requirements of a Child Protection Social Worker
A child protection social worker is empathetic, kind, understanding, communicative, and responsive. Their primary focus is to help families feel supported while looking out for the best interests of the children during trying times.
In order to do this, child protection social workers will speak, write, and multi-task all communication frequently so everyone feels supported in a clear and concise manner. They are adept at handling stress and being flexible with change to meet needs.
Families can trust a child protection social worker to not only look out for their best interests but advocate for them. Their education is often focused on a Bachelor’s in Social Work but can also be under Psychology, Criminal Justice, or Sociology. All of these educational interests give them a foundation of resources, skillsets, and mental fortitude to do what must be done with a friendly and tangible approach.
No matter what field of study a social worker pursued, they adapt their skill sets to meet the needs of families.
Child Protection Social Workers Do Manage Case Work
Part of the primary responsibilities of a child protection social worker is to determine the legitimacy and accuracy of any and all neglect accusations when it comes to a child’s welfare with a family. They must advocate both for the family and the child when it comes to any mention of abuse or neglect.
This is where the skillsets of empathy and communication play a vital role. Child protection social workers must clearly communicate between multiple parties what was reported and what they see. They listen to all parties and follow up on investigations to ensure the safety and protection of all parties.
Social workers will often times talk with family, school resources, and more to ensure what they’ve heard and follow up on any allegations; their primary purpose during any investigation is to have a well-rounded view of a child’s life and where they, the social worker, can provide the most aid.
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Most importantly, a Child Protection Social Worker Advocates for Families
The primary responsibility, above all else, is the safe reunification of families and the protection of all children under their care.
A child protection social worker ultimately makes the referral to a judge about the removal of a child from a family’s care for a temporary amount of time. Before doing so, however, they assess the situation and talk to all involved.
A child protection social worker will work with families and make referrals for adjustments before jumping to a removal. They will discuss classes, resources, therapists, community centers, and more in order to help all parties adjust and meet their needs.
Clinical social workers in particular have a handle on local community resources and always work alongside a family to get them support where they need it most.
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Clinical Social Worker vs Child Welfare Worker with the State
There is a difference between a child protection social worker employed by the state and employed as a clinician. Both advocates for a child’s needs but their education, skillsets, and ultimate legal boundaries do vary.
Clinical social workers are often at private institutions, working alongside therapists, like the social workers in Ellicott City at The Family Center. They help families get resources and support above all else. They can provide a third-party overview of a child’s care and help highlight areas of improvement with tangible solutions that work for everyone.
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Get Support from a Social Worker in Ellicott City Today
In summary, a child protection social worker is always available for families when support and resources are needed. They are mindful, attentive, and work with multiple levels of officials to ensure families are heard and children are safe.
Clinical social workers like those at The Family Center can be a great resource when families are searching for further support. They advocate for a child and know exactly what parents need to be supported and be the best they can be.
Getting help can be easy when the right people are advocating. Learn more and reach out today to a social worker in Ellicott City to help you and your family navigate new dynamics.