Andrea continues abuse drugs and alcohol

The Signs of Safety® approach is a strength-based, safety-organized framework for child protection practice. It was developed in response to findings that traditional child protection systems were not adequately protecting children and families, and that a more collaborative, strengths-based approach was needed. The approach is founded on the belief that child safety is best promoted by building on the strengths and protective factors within families, rather than focusing solely on the risks and needs.

1. What are we worried about?

(3) Complicating factors: There are several complicating factors in this case, including the fact that both Andrea and Vincent have chronic health conditions (Andrea has epilepsy and Vincent has autism and chronic asthma). Additionally, both Andrea and Vincent's father are unemployed and receive government assistance. Andrea has not been taking her medication regularly and has not been attending therapy sessions regularly. She has also been known to talk to herself and hear voices. The mother has a history of substance abuse and a history of suicide attempts. The mother has a history of being abused by her ex-boyfriend. The father has a history of being abusive to the child. The family has a history of being investigated by CPS.

2. What's working well?

The mother has a history of mental illness and has been hospitalized multiple times.

The father has a history of violence and has been accused of abusing the child in the past.

The safety goals for the child in this case would be to ensure that he is safe from harm, both from his parents and from his environment. The next steps would be to assess the child's needs and develop a plan to meet those needs.

(6) Safety goals: The goal in this case should be to ensure that Vincent is safe and that he has a permanent placement that can provide him with the stability and support he needs. Additionally, it is important to ensure that Andrea receives the mental health treatment she needs in order to reduce the risk of her harming herself or Vincent. Andrea needs to take her medication regularly and attend therapy sessions regularly. She also needs to attend a parenting skills class. The goal is to keep Vincent safe from harm. Therefore, the safety goal in this case should be to ensure that the mother receives the mental health treatment she needs and that the son is safe and protected from witnessing any further mental health or suicide attempts. The next steps would be to ensure that the mother is compliant with her mental health treatment and to provide the son with support and resources as needed.