(a) Purpose. Voluntary Family-Centered Services (FCS) include decision-making processes following a child abuse or neglect investigation or assessment, and services provided to families. The purposes of voluntary FCS are to assess a family's needs for services 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 and family, while preserving and strengthening the family in order to prevent unnecessary 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 7001-1.2 of Title 10 of the Oklahoma Statutes. FCS emphasizes a commitment to:
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(1) maintain children safely in their own homes when possible;
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(2) focus on entire families rather than individuals; and
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(3) provide comprehensive services that meet the range of families' 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.