Front line child welfare perspectives on the utility and implementation of intensive family preservation services

Abstract

Background: The Family First Preservation Services Act (FFPSA) was passed in 2018 in part to increase use of evidence-based services among child welfare systems (CWS). As such, states have implemented new service models in order to fit legislation. The current manuscript reports on perspectives of CWS workers across one state regarding the utility of a new intensive family preservation services model. Methods: CWS personnel completed surveys (n=279) and interviews (n=17) to assess their perspectives on the strengths and weaknesses of the newly implemented intensive family preservation services model. Results: Survey and interview data highlighted themes related to the importance of relationships between CWS personnel and service providers, perceived child safety under the new service provision model, and availability of services for families. Conclusion: Continued work is needed to improve cross-system collaboration between CWS and community service providers both in implementation and adoption of new service models as well as for sustainability of service models, as collaborative relationships are essential to successful service delivery and child safety.