Family reunification in child welfare practice: A pilot study of parent and staff experiences

• Published in: Children and youth services review 2018-08, Vol.91, p.221-231
• Main Authors: Chambers, Ruth M., Crutchfield, Rashida M., Goddu Harper, Stephanie G., Fatemi, Maryam, Rodriguez, Angel Y.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Alternative approaches; Caseloads; Child welfare; Children; Families & family life; Family research; Family reunification; Parent-child relations; Parents & parenting; Pilot projects
• ISSN: 0190-7409; 1873-7765
• DOI: 10.1016/j.childyouth.2018.06.020

Current knowledge about the types of child welfare interventions that best promote family reunification has increased over the years. However, evidence remains fairly limited regarding the process of implementing these programs and the experiences of families participating in these services. This study addresses these gaps by examining how a child welfare agency implemented an innovative pilot initiative designed to promote timely family reunification. This research study explored a program that included three core components: Family to Family program model, reduced worker caseloads, and caseworker continuity. The study aimed to answer three research questions: (1) how was the program envisioned, created and implemented, (2) what were staff members' experiences implementing the program, and (3) what were parents' experiences receiving services from this program? Findings indicated that the implementation of pilot program was consistent with the original program design. Both staff and parents perceived the program to be valuable and effective. Participants highlighted how the program's unique structure helped families reunify, especially by fostering trusting relationships between caseworkers and parents, and close collaboration between the child welfare agency and the local community. Results from the study offer recommendations regarding alternative approaches to achieving family reunification or permanency for children. Implications for child welfare practice, policy and research are provided. •Parents reported positive experiences participating in services.•Small caseloads and worker continuity fostered positive parent-worker relationships.•Community collaboration promoted successful outcomes for families.•Vision, design and implementation of a pilot Family to Family program are presented.•Alternative approaches to achieve family reunification are provided.