110 CMR 9.03 - Procedures

(1) The Social worker, and His Supervisor Make The Case Closing Decision. Case closing is a clinical decision between a social worker and his/her supervisor, which decision is thereafter discussed with the client family. Case closing takes into consideration the stated goals of the case, the individual's or family's participation in services, the reduction of risk to the child, legal issues, and the Department's responsibility to provide services. When a family which is the subject of a supported 51A report refuses further Department services, and if the social worker and/or supervisor wish to seek court-ordered custody of the children in question, then a consultation with a Department attorney shall be conducted to determine if there are grounds for legal action. The social worker documents in writing in the case record the outcome of this consultation. If legal action is not warranted and despite reasonable casework efforts, the family persists in refusing Department services, the social worker documents this in the case record and proceeds to close the case, by following the procedures set forth in 110 CMR 9.00.

(2) A Plan is Developed for Case Closure. The social worker and his/her supervisor determine what activities are necessary to prepare the case for closing, and complete these activities.

(3) Area Director Reviews Case Closing. There shall be a review of every case closing decision by either the Area Director or his/her designee. If the Area Director or designee approves, s/he shall sign a case closing form to approve the closing.

(4) The Social Worker Notifies the Family in Writing of the Decision to Close the Case. The social worker shall notify the family in writing that the case is to be closed. An outline of the fair hearing/grievance procedures shall be attached to the letter.

Notes

110 CMR 9.03