Introduction to RED Teams

Prerequisite: Completion of the SOP Foundational Institute is required prior to attending this training.

RED (Review, Evaluate and Direct) team is a group decision-making strategy to respond proportionally to allegations of child maltreatment. It is informed by a consultation and information sharing framework that includes harm/danger, risk statements, complicating factors, safety, strengths/protective factors, the purpose/focus of consultation and, ultimately, next steps. The members of the RED team are charged with reviewing, evaluating and directing all referrals that have been accepted through intake screening or for subsequent referrals on open child welfare cases.


After participating in this training, participants will be able to:

  • Recognize the strong benefits to maintaining a county RED team
  • Understand the shift from a single social worker or supervisor making a decision to an integrated team
  • Increase critical decision-making skills during the intake process
  •  Understand the implementation process for RED teams
  • Begin implementation of RED teams in their jurisdiction

The RED team provides both structure and process in review of alleged reports of child maltreatment, evaluation of the available information, and direction regarding the agency response.

ICPM Category: Assessment

Course Code
413540