A bill from Rep. Stephanie McClintock to improve communications with the DCYF heard in committee
CONTACT: Kent Livingston, Public Information Officer 2 | 360-786-7031
A bill from Rep. Stephanie McClintock to improve communications with the DCYF heard in committee
The Human Services, Youth, and Early Learning Committee heard a bill from Rep. Stephanie McClintock today that would require the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) to establish a caregiver communication specialist position within the DCYF.
The newly created position would serve to improve communication between the DCYF and caregivers caring for children receiving child welfare services.
“I have seen firsthand how the foster care system can be frustrating and difficult to navigate for caregivers, simply because of a lack of communication,” said McClintock, R-Vancouver. “I know the DCYF must deal with so many issues and this bill is not intended to point the finger at anyone. However, it is trying to resolve a legitimate problem.”
The legislation would require the DCYF to submit a report describing how to implement an automated notification system that would provide notification – either by phone or electronically – to caregivers of children receiving child welfare services and providing recommendations regarding improving communications between the DCYF and caregivers.
The caregiver communication specialist position would be responsible for:
- Assisting caseworkers in promptly communicating with caregivers of children receiving child welfare services.
- Developing policies for sharing appropriate and timely information with such caregivers.
- Supporting coordination between existing caregiver engagement teams, constituent relations, communications specialists, and child welfare field offices.
“Anything we can do to improve the working relationship between caregivers and the DCYF is a good move. It’s a simple step, but it would make a big difference for families who sponsor children in foster care, and most importantly help these kids,” said McClintock.
The 2024 legislative session began on Jan. 8 and is schedule to end on March 7.
