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Alternative Response
No Longer the Alternative!
Alternative Response (AR) is a different way of engaging with families in certain investigations of alleged abuse and neglect. AR allows you to meet the needs of the family while still keeping children safe. The AR approach works with the family in a collaborative and non-judgmental manner.
AR investigations are Priority 2 investigations. In AR there is no alleged perpetrator, no disposition, and no entry into the Central Registry.
If safety concerns exist that cannot be addressed through AR, the AR investigation is moved into a Traditional Investigation.
As we work to expand AR Investigations across the state, we are committed to strengthening our practice and using the past 10 years as a guide toward implementing new and innovative strategies to meet the emerging needs of children and families. Partnering with families can lead to increased engagement, service utilization, both formal and informal, safer homes, and less children entering the foster care system. We are excited and looking forward to advancing AR so that more families have this approach available to them. The Alternative Response approach will no longer be the “alternative."
Alternative Response (AR) Criteria:
What can you expect to change?
*For a more detailed view, please
see the Alternative Response Model.
- An Investigation with a child of any age can be screened for AR
- Traditional pathway cases will now be under consideration for AR based on additional information at intake or initial contact with the family
What will remain the same?
- Although, most cases that TDFPS receives meet the criteria for AR, some cases will not:
- Sexual Abuse
- Human Trafficking
- Child Fatality
- Serious physical abuse that requires a disposition
- AR investigations will be transitioned to a traditional investigation if more intervention is warranted
Goals for AR Advancement:
| Increase | Decrease |
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