The Child Welfare (CW) Access Team is the entry point for many types of services provided by the Department. CW Access deals with people from birth through age 17, and assesses a broad range of problems involving child abuse/neglect.

The CW Access social worker's primary duties are to investigate child abuse/neglect allegations, which are usually brought to our attention by a phone referral. Findings/determinations are made regarding these allegations resulting in the case being closed, referred to community resources for services, opened for services from our Department, or referred to court for court ordered intervention because of the seriousness of the situation. Approximately two thirds of referrals are assigned to social workers for follow-up or investigation.

Services

• Child Abuse and Neglect Investigations

Due to a report of suspected child abuse/neglect, which is usually brought to the department's attention by phone, findings/determinations are made regarding these allegations and the case will be closed or referred on for other services depending on the seriousness of the situation.