In this video and real world example of how important it is for social workers to champion a family first (or kin-first) culture in child welfare, mother and current social worker Crystal shares how her children were removed and placed into child welfare due to domestic violence and substance use in the home back in October 2013. Many of her kids were placed in separate homes and difficult to stay in touch with for more than one hour a week, resulting in additional trauma to the children and family. A decade later, as a parent partner turned social worker, she looks back at the enormously positive difference having her daughter placed with a grandparent had during that turbulent time. This video incorporates the voice and perspective of the parent and the child. Learn more about kin-first culture at the Center for Excellence in Family Finding, Engagement and Support's website:
https://humanservices.ucdavis.edu/center-for-excellence-family-finding-engagement