Licensing section is pending
the completion of the
Best Practices chapter

Frequently Asked Questions

• As a worker, when will I get time to use the web resource?
• How does this system relate to SACWIS?
• What is a PDF file, and when would I want to use one?
• Can I fill out forms on this system?
• What information is included in this system?
• Why use the web resource and not just the information in my field office library?

As a worker, when will I get time to use the web resource?

The web resource has been created in large part to help front line workers have quick and ready access to important references and documents. This system contains all of the Best Practice guides, the allegations, Department rules and procedures, state and federal legislation, and other references such as research, cultural information, and clinical skills. This information is woven together, via hyperlink, so that practice behaviors are linked to policy and procedure. With the fluidity and inter-linkage of the information, workers can access information more quickly than they have been able to in the past.

Therefore, as a worker making the time to review a case in light of DCFS policy and procedure, state law, and best practices is important and must be done. And, we believe we have made that task a more efficient process for workers with the development of the web resource.

How does this system relate to SACWIS?

SACWIS is the system that you will use to document all of the work you do. The SACWIS system will integrate many of the Department databases. For example, it will combine information that has previously been stored in the CANTS and MARS/ CYSIS databases. SACWIS will store all case files; it will delineate family relationships, keep track of contacts and visits, and remind workers of tasks that need to be accomplished. A worker will fill out all forms on the SACWIS system.

This web resource is not SACWIS. It is, however, a link from the SACWIS system. The web resource provides the information that a worker used to have access to solely on paper documents in the office library. The Best Practice Guides, the Allegation System, Department Rules and Procedures, Legislation, and other Resources are available in HTML and PDF format on the web resource.

What is a PDF file, and when would I want to use one?

A PDF file is a file format that is easily printed. To open a PDF file the computer you are using needs to have installed on it "Adobe Acrabat Reader." At this time, all DCFS computers have this capability. If you are interested in printing out any section of the web resource, you would access the PDF file and hit "File" "Print". All the information currently available in HTML (web-based) is also available in PDF.

Can I fill out forms on this system?

No. Forms can be filled out only in the SACWIS system. The web resource gives you the practice information related to your work and appropriate forms that you fill out. For example, there is extensive discussion of the CERAP. Information includes the purpose of the CERAP, how to make a safety assessment using the CERAP tool, definitions related to safety, and other information. However, to fill out an actual CERAP on a family/child the worker must use the SACWIS system.

What information is included in this system?

The Best Practice committee wanted to make available to each worker, in an easily accessible format, all of the resource information necessary for completing their work. Child welfare is steeped in legal and procedural context. This resource is the result. The Best Practice guides are the primary text for each service section. Also accessible from each section are: the Allegation System, Department Rule and Procedure, DCFS Policy Transmittals and Policy Guides, Federal and State Legislation, and Knowledge Resources.

Why use the web resource and not just the information in my field office library?

We believe that there are many benefits to using the on-line resource. First and foremost, the information is always up to date. The web-resource is reviewed weekly for changes to policy or practice related issues. Changes to the system can be implemented immediately. For this reason, you can have confidence that the material on the site is current. Also, the information is structured to optimize your learning and navigation. Through the use of internal links, one can immediately access legal definitions of terms, access the specific rule or procedure that relates to a specific area of practice, or access research or clinical helps related to a specific practice behavior. As you become familiar with the web resource, we believe that this strategy for accessing information will save you much time.