OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Human Services recently announced that it is expanding child welfare training as part of its goal to make Oklahoma the safest state in the nation for children.
The effort reinforces a consistent, evidence-informed approach to child safety while strengthening collaboration among child welfare professionals, judges, attorneys and other community partners.
The initiative builds on OHS’ ongoing revitalization of the Safety Assessment and Family Evaluation (SAFE) Model, a nationally recognized framework used to guide child safety decisions. In recent months, the agency has expanded training, coaching and leadership development to promote consistent application of the model across Child Welfare Services, with plans to broaden that training to key partners involved in child welfare cases.
“Our vision is for Oklahoma to become the safest state in the nation for children,” said OHS Director Jeffrey Cartmell. “Reaching that goal requires strong leadership, highly trained professionals and a child welfare system that continually learns, improves and holds itself to the highest standard.”
OHS states that the SAFE Model centers on one essential question: Is the child safe? It helps child welfare professionals assess immediate and potential dangers, evaluate caregiver protective capacities and develop safety plans that protect children while supporting family stability. The framework also provides a common approach to supervision and decision-making throughout the life of a case.
Experts from Action 4 Child Protection, the organization that developed the SAFE Model, recently joined OHS leaders, supervisors and Child Welfare professionals for statewide leadership training focused on reinforcing best practices and strengthening leadership.
Anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect should report it immediately by calling the 24-hour Oklahoma Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline at (800) 522-3511. Additional information and family resources are available through OHS.