1. Safe Children Healthier FamiliesHow Appropriate Response Is A Part Of Protective Factors

2. How Does DSS Fit WithCommunity Protective Factors Each community has its ownstrengths and weaknesses Many people think that DSS is theonly agency that is responsible forchild welfare That is like saying that doctors arethe only ones that are responsiblefor peoples health. DSS is part of the community 3. How Does DSS Fit WithCommunity Protective Factors Just like people can take action toimprove their health Communities can take action to enhance prevention of child abuse/neglect Each child and family belongs to thecommunity Each case belongs to the family DSS is one of the agencies responsiblefor facilitating services to build protective 4. How Does DSS Fit WithCommunity Protective FactorsBEFORE: DSS intake was to either accept or not accept report DSS was only finding abuse or neglect in 36% of cases So, 64% of time DSS did not find abuse orneglect. Many families had identified riskfactors especially around concrete needs(i.e. financial supports, housing, food andclothing) 5. How Does DSS Fit WithCommunity Protective FactorsBEFORE: DSS could make referrals during the 45day investigation but could not follow upafter the investigation These cases often would be reportedagain because of risk factors Some workers feeling somewhathelpless would indicate abuse/neglectjust so they could get services and helpthe family 6. How Does Appropriate Response FitWith Community Protective FactorsAFTER: January 17, 2012, DSS beganimplementation of AppropriateResponse in Greenville, Anderson andSpartanburg. Implemented statewide May 21, 2012 Appropriate Response has structuredsafety questions and an evidence-basedrisk matrix to help guide decisions atintake 7. How Does Appropriate Response Fitwith Protective Factors Low and Moderate Risk cases arereferred to our community contractors. Community contractors assess family for child safety and then for needs. connect the family to services to address identified needs. identify gaps in service within the community. 8. How Does Appropriate Response FitWith Community Protective FactorsAFTER: Community contractors work withcommunity leaders and DSS to enhanceservices and increase communityprotective factors. Since Appropriate Response more childrenand families are receiving appropriateservices than ever before Children are safer and families arehealthier due to enhanced serviceopportunities available within thecommunities