The significance of transition planning for placement change Barbara Dirienzo, Managing Attorney-Children’s Legal Services James Carlson, Chief Operations Officer, Brevard Family Partnership

Introduction Transition children in care Trauma in transitioning Circuit 18 transition planning Real world impact Partnership plan

Transitioning Children in Care Department of Children and Families study completed in December 2010 Random sample of 54 foster parents around the state interviewed regarding transition practices Only 55% stated they were involved in planning transition for child in the home

Transitioning Children in Care 60% stated they had no contact with new caregiver Although almost half foster parents stated they had a good experience or were able to plan for the move, the remaining stated they had no notice

What is the significance?

Abuse Neglect Abandonment Exploitation Family Violence

Transitions and Trauma Trauma due to: ▫Abuse or neglect ▫Separation from birth family ▫Placement change

Goal of Transition Planning in Circuit 18 Work together with Children’s Legal Services (CLS) and the Judiciary to ensure each child in care does not suffer any additional harm as a result of any change in placement Maintain vigilance from the time a child comes into care until case is closed Discuss plan for reunification/permanency from the beginning

Goal of Transition Planning in Circuit 18 Ensure time allocated for transitions Awareness of significance of every single placement change and transition a child experiences

Real World Impact

Partnership Plan An agreement between each individual foster family and the organizations specifying values, principles, and relationships to ensure a successful experience ▫Respected Partners ▫Nurturing Children ▫Supporting Families ▫Strengthening Communities

Teaming together for successful outcomes for our families!! Children’s Legal Services Judiciary Families Department of Children & Families Community Based Care Brevard Family Partnership