Every family is assigned a ChildSafe Family Support Specialist (FSS). The FSS is critical to helping you and your child (ages 3-18) receive compassionate services.
FSS services are provided to the caregiver of children who participate in the forensic interviews. The services are designed to provide support, case management, victim rights, and education to caregivers so that they may better support their child during and after the investigation.
The caregiver and the Family Support Specialist meet during their child’s forensic interview and briefly just after the interview has ended. During these meetings, the FSS:
- explores any abuse related needs of the caregivers
- provides education on the criminal and civil investigation process, and
- provides general reassurance and support to the caregiver.
The Family Support Specialist will review each family’s situation and discuss:
- counseling services
- medical care
- housing
- domestic violence
- safety concerns
- mental health
- educational issues
- employment
- financial assistance
- food, clothing, and other basic needs.
Based on the family’s needs, the Family Support Specialist will provide referrals for services located close to the family’s home. Follow-up services and ongoing case management services are offered up until the child’s 18th birthday.
Caregivers may ask for weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly meetings with their FSS for individual services and to assist in guiding the caregiver through the legal and civil system for child abuse. Additional services such as court accompaniment, medical accompaniment, may be offered or requested by the caregiver.
Services are available in English and Spanish.