Connecticut DCF Launches New Child Welfare Differential Response System

On March 5, 2012, the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) launched its new differential response child welfare system to improve services to families and children. The new system enables DCF child abuse hotline workers and child protective investigators to use a child safety risk-assessment for families reported for potential child abuse or neglect. Services for children and families determined to be at high risk of harm will be coordinated by DCF. Families and children determined to be at low-risk of child harm will be referred to ongoing community support services and case management coordinated by one . . .