DCF & COVID-19

DCF issued guidance on Support and Stabilization services (services to help children remain home or be reunified with their families) requires area offices to prioritize the highest level of services to families deemed the highest risk, and shifts in-home visits to telephonic or video chats. EOHHS issued guidance for congregate care (group homes and residential treatment) providers contracted or funded by EOHHS agencies, including DCF and DYS. Providers of Support and Stabilization, as well as congregate care, are designated “essential workers” by the Governor’s Emergency Order.

The pandemic also brings considerable challenges to youth and families involved in the child welfare system.  Delays or suspensions will impact a child’s prospects of reunification – both in terms of continued connections between children and their families, as well as in light of federal timelines towards the termination of parental rights.

Families have to meet specific requirements as conditions of reunification and child-family visitation should be occurring during this period to maintain the familial bond and support the transition to reunification.  DCF has suspended child-family visitation and the pandemic exacerbates parental ability to comply with conditions of reunification. The Juvenile Court Standing Order only allows temporary custody hearings within 72 hours of a child removed from the home for an emergency hearing. All other matters are delayed till after May 4th.

So far, it is unclear:

  • How maltreatment investigations will be conducted?

  • How child care respite needs will be met, especially with school and child care closures?  Without places for children to go, there is a strain on all families and the risk for a rise in neglect and re-placement by foster families increases.

  • How will visitation and reunification schedules be addressed and fulfilled?

  • How will the suspension of family/child visitation be mitigated? 

  • Will service requirements be lifted? Will there be guidelines for families so they are not considered in violation of those services if they cannot take place? 

  • How can families fulfill substance use treatment?  SAMHSA has released guidelines allowing for making exceptions to treatment requirements.

  • What will happen to transition age youth who age out during the pandemic.