Child Protective Services (CPS) is a critical component of the Child Welfare System. CPS steps in whenever there are concerns about a child’s safety, well-being, or if they are at risk of abuse or neglect. The main goal of CPS is to protect children by identifying and addressing the conditions that threaten their safety and security, while also offering support to families to make necessary changes.
How CPS Works:
CPS is the only entity within the Human Services system that is vested with the responsibility of ensuring the safety of children in the community. To meet this responsibility the CPS process includes:
Access: Access involves receiving and documenting reports of alleged child maltreatment to identify families requiring a CPS response, determine the urgency of the response and initiate assessments of child safety and family strengths.
Initial Assessment: The initial assessment professional gathers information to determine if children are safe by evaluating parental behaviors, protective capacities, and family dynamics, identifying necessary services to create a safe environment, and assessing whether maltreatment occurred.
Ongoing Services: If children are determined to be victims of maltreatment and unsafe, CPS works with families to implement safety plans and services, providing support until the family can ensure the child’s well-being on their own.
Brown County’s Approach to Child Protection:
In Brown County, we believe that every child deserves protection and a safe, loving home. We work collaboratively with families to help them create secure environments for their children. We believe that thoughtful engagement with families is key to our work and that families are the experts about their situation.
This approach is guided by several key principles:
Child Safety: Our primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of children, intervening to protect them from harm.
Family Engagement: Parents and caregivers are viewed as the main authority and are responsible for their children’s safety. We believe in fostering a respectful, honest, and collaborative relationship with families to empower them in their journey of creating a safer home.
Support & Advocacy: CPS is here to support families, helping them access services and resources that can make a difference in their children’s lives. In cases of outside abuse, we advocate for parents to meet their child’s needs effectively.
Community Connection: Children thrive when they stay within their families and communities. CPS prioritizes keeping children connected to their roots and loved ones while ensuring their safety and well-being.
Our Commitment:
CPS is committed to providing effective, thorough assessments and case management to ensure that every child has the chance to grow up in a safe, stable, and nurturing environment. We strive to offer support to both children and parents, ensuring that safety and permanence are at the forefront of every case we handle.