Frequently Asked Questions

HOW CAN I REPORT A CONCERN ABOUT A POLICY, PROCEDURE, OR PRACTICE IN A COUNTY?

Reports of concerns can be made by calling the hotline. Live staff will be available on the hotline from 8 am to 5 pm, Monday–Friday, excluding holidays. After hours, callers can leave a message with their contact information or reports can be made via the Social Worker Empowerment Hotline (AB 1978) website by completing the SOC 886 form or by providing a detailed email and sending it to the Social worker Empowerment Hotline mailbox.

HOW WILL MY REPORT BE HANDLED?

Once a report is received, it is reviewed by a staff member to determine if it meets the criteria outlined in Welfare & Institutions Code Section 10605.5(a)(1) legislation for the office. If the report is determined to meet the statutory criteria be relevant, then an internal review of the report will be initiated. Depending on the nature of the report, this review may include additional interviewing of the reporting party, review of CWS/CMS records or an onsite review in the county.

WILL MY CONFIDENTIALITY BE PROTECTED?

The identity of a social worker making a report under this statute will be protected and can only be released a) if the social worker consents to disclosure, or b) if there is an immediate risk to the health and safety of a child. In the second case, the Department will strive to protect reporter confidentiality, but it should be noted that the details and nature of the report may make it possible for county leadership to infer the source of the report.

An example of a circumstance in which there is immediate risk to the health and safety of a child would be if a report comes in stating a child is in placement with a caregiver who is unsafe and the responsible agency has knowledge of this risk and is taking no action, and there is credible supporting information.

CAN I FACE REPROCUSSIONS FOR MAKING A DISCLOSURE?

Social workers making a report may be protected under whistleblower laws when disclosing information about violations or noncompliance with law in the workplace. The State of California, Department of Industrial Relations, Division of Labor Standards Enforcement has information regarding the California Whistleblower Protection Act (Labor Code Section 1102.5).

For more information or to discuss possible concerns, you may also consult your local labor representative.

Contact Us

Social workers can report concerns regarding a county child welfare agency practices, policies, or procedures that endanger the health, safety, or well-being of children at:

TOLL FREE 1-844-796-6283

AB1978Hotline@dss.ca.gov

You can contact the AB 1978 Hotline through the toll free number, or for administrative questions, you can contact the Children’s Services Operations Bureau at (916) 651-8100 and ask to speak to someone regarding the Social Worker Empowerment Hotline (AB 1978 ) program.

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