(a) Purpose.  Voluntary Family-Centered Services (FCS) includes making decisions about appropriate referrals and services that are provided to families following an assessment or investigation of child abuse or neglect allegations.  The purposes of voluntary FCS are to assess a family's needs and make referrals for services when child abuse, neglect, or both are identified.  Service needs assessment and referral focus on increasing safety for the child, while preserving and strengthening the protective capacities of the family to prevent out-of-home placements.

(b) Philosophy.  Family reunification or rehabilitation is a priority, but the right to family integrity is limited by the right of children to be protected from abuse and neglect, per Section 1-1-102 of Title 10A of the Oklahoma Statutes.  FCS emphasizes a commitment to:

• (1) maintain children safely in their own homes when possible;
• (2) focus on the entire family rather than individuals; and
• (3) provide comprehensive services that target the family’s  therapeutic, supportive, and concrete needs.

(c) Legal base and authority.  Preventive and pre-placement services to children and families are mandated by the Promoting Safe and Stable Families Act, Title IV-B, Subparts I and II, and Oklahoma Department of Human Services Child and Family Services Plan.