Section 315.310  Termination of Services and Planning for Aftercare

a)         Planning for the termination of services is an integral part of all service planning.  From its earliest contacts with children and families, the Department  or purchase of service agency shall focus on when services to the children and families shall end.  In addition, when the Department is legally responsible for a child, the Department or purchase of service agency shall also focus on when and how the child shall be discharged from the Department's custody or guardianship and what aftercare services will be provided.

b)         If the child will be returned home from substitute care, the Department or purchase of service agency shall provide services for at least six months following return home of the child.

c)         Prior to closing a case, the Department or purchase of service agency will:

1)         conduct a review of the child's safety that includes:

A)        a child safety and risk assessment protocol to include all members of the household, including a CANTS and LEADS check of all adults who reside or frequent the home; and

B)        interviews with relatives, friends, or other persons who provide a support network for the family;

2)         review all medical, school, clinical, and social service reports;

3)         interview and observe the child alone out of the presence of the caregiver;

4)         conduct a family meeting as described in Section 315.120;

5)         petition the court for termination of the Department's custody or guardianship; and

6)         complete a final service plan that outlines how the health, safety, and well-being of the children will be ensured and what aftercare services are needed.