Child Protection Services are delivered in accordance with Chapter 48 of the Wisconsin Statutes, also known as the “Children’s Code.” The code directs courts and child welfare agencies to do whatever they can to protect children, always keeping the child’s best interest paramount. Efforts are directed toward preserving the unity of families when possible through assisting parents in better understanding and fulfilling their responsibilities. A coordinated service team approach to providing assistance, connecting families with community resources, partner agencies, and natural supports, is encouraged.
Services include investigation of reports of abuse and neglect as well as service coordination and child protection intervention when reports are substantiated. In some instances, children may receive foster care or kinship care arranged by the Department while safety issues in their natural homes are addressed. Efforts in such instances are extended toward reuniting families when possible and achieving permanence for children always.
