Solution-based Casework
Solution-based casework is a family-centered approach to delivering child-welfare services. This model, which was first evaluated in Kentucky, identifies and builds on family strengths to improve outcomes for children and their parents.
How it works
With this approach, social workers are taught engagement skills, interviewing techniques, family life-cycle development, and relapse prevention techniques. For example, social workers:
- Focus on everyday challenges the family faces and help to identify solutions to those problems.
- Work with families to understand what contributed to negative behaviors and explore prevention strategies.
- Build consensus with the family and service providers on what needs to be done to reduce risk and protect children.
What we’re doing
Partners for Our Children is working with the state’s Children’s Administration to evaluate the impact of this new practice model on children and families in Washington state over a three-year period. The study will also measure the level of social worker satisfaction when using solution-based casework techniques and interventions.
Workforce training and follow-up coaching is provided during the three-year period. A baseline survey of social workers, supervisors and families has just been completed. These surveys will be repeated after SBC is fully implemented to measure improvements and identify opportunities.
Learn more about this initiative
New! Baseline reports from the supervisor, social worker and parent surveys.
New! Presentation to Washington State Legislative committee on what we're learning from Solution Based Casework surveys.
The University of Louisville evaluation on Kentucky’s experience with solution-based casework.
