The answer depends upon the current number of referrals, so check with us by phone or email for an accurate answer.

No.  Despite the program's name, children in relative care, in-home dependencies, group care, and "responsible adult placements" can be referred to FCAP.

All of our assessments are conducted by Master's-level social workers at the Harborview Abuse & Trauma Center (formerly HCSATS).  We refer to these staff as "evaluators."  All of our evaluators have worked in child welfare for more than ten years.  Several of our staff have worked as FCAP evaluators for more than ten years.  Our program takes a team approach to formulating our analysis and recommendations.

Children who are not dependent can be referred for a consultation.

Only DCYF social workers can refer cases to FCAP.  However, other important key players in the case (such as attorneys, CASAs, foster parents, and teachers), DCYF personnel (such as those from Fostering Wellbeing) and Apple Health Core Connections staff, can encourage social workers to refer.

FCAP was created by the legislature over twenty years ago and the name of the program originated with them.  Our field has evolved considerably since that time, and our name is outdated.  We frequently consider changing the name because it is not consistent with our values related to returning children/youth to their parents and families whenever safe to do so.  However, for now we are keeping it as "FCAP" because of our history and the fact that we've established a positive reputation with our name.

No.  The role of the social workers is to complete the initial FCAP referral and provide information to the evaluator during the assessment process.  FCAP is a contracted program funded by DCYF, and the FCAP program will obtain approval form the DCYF liaison.  Social workers do not need to provide payment or complete paperwork for special funding.

No.  A child/youth of any age can be referred given that other criteria are met.

FCAP consultations are a 45 minute phone conversation with the DCYF social worker to address a specific question.  Others who are closely involved in the case, such as caregivers or CASAs, are sometimes included in the discussion.  Questions considered during a consult might include whether adjustments to visitation will be helpful or what specific service will address a given problem for a child or caregiver.  Consultations can be scheduled very quickly, and FCAp produces a written summary of recommendations within 48 hours.