3.18 Assessing the Case for Closure

The SSW:

1. Initiates completion of the case plan evaluation/ongoing assessment within thirty (30) days prior to closure; ​
   
2. Considers whether: 
1. The factors causing maltreatment are resolved to the point that the parent or guardian can protect and meet the needs of the children; 
2. The documented risk of maltreatment is reduced to the point that the parent or guardian can protect and meet the needs of the children; or 
   
3. The case planning goals have been achieved; 
   
3. Discusses with the family the possibility of case closure concurrent to the completion of the new assessment; 
4. Documents the mutual agreement to close the case; ​
5. Provides the court at least fourteen (14) days advance notice, in writing, of the intention to close the case, if there is court involvement; 
6. Works with the family in developing an aftercare plan that focuses on preventing maltreatment; 
7. Links the family to community resources as necessary; 
8. Provides the family, including identified fathers as outlined in SOP 4.14 Family Attachment and Involvement with the following forms: 
1. DPP-154A Notice of Intended Action, advising of the intention to close the case; and 
2. DPP-154 Protection and Permanency Service Appeal, advising of the right to a fair hearing; 
9. Summarizes the reason for closure in the ongoing disposition TWIST screens including the following information: 
1. ​​​Discussion and agreement with the family of the mutual agreement to close the case. 
2. ​​If court involvement, the date the court was sent notice {at least fourteen (14) days advance notice, in writing, of the intention to close the case}. 
3. Rationale for case closure: 
1. ​​​​The factors causing maltreatment are resolved to the point that the parent or guardian can protect and meet the needs of the children;​
2. The documented risk of maltreatment is reduced to the point that the parent or guardian can protect and meet the needs of the children;
3. The case planning goals have been achieved.
4. A description of the community resources the family has been linked to in the aftercare plan. 
10. Closes the case immediately, if the forms are hand-delivered unless the client disagrees with the closure; 
11. Waits ten (10) days prior to closing the case if the forms are sent via U.S. mail.
    
    

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