Youth are required to be placed in the most family-like environment practically possible and consistent with their safety and community safety. Non-relative extended family members (NREFMs) and relative caretakers often fill this need and provide a critical component of relationship and permanency. This workshop will focus on the technical side of working with potential caretakers to determine whether or not they are an appropriate placement for minors. The workshop will also examine how to evaluate both the caretakers and the home and will conclude with establishing a paperwork process (including state forms) that agencies can utilize to document the approval or denial of the caretaker. Appropriate documentation/discussion for court reports will also be addressed.
Participants will:
- Identify and articulate a multi-step process whereby NREFMs can be evaluated for appropriateness
- Demonstrate an NREFM interview process
- Identify and complete all required state forms
- Construct a plan of correction for identified housing deficiencies
- Identify criminal background checks and implications for approval
- Design a universal checklist for evaluating potential caretakers
- Effectively describe the caretaker’s characteristics for placement in a court report
Participants will be prepared to conduct an NREFM placement assessment and certification to meet the unique needs of an individual youth.