Work First 104D – FAMILY VIOLENCE OPTION

VIII. ASSESSMENT

Refer individuals who have self-disclosed family violence or who have screened positive for family violence for an in-depth assessment. Make the referral within 5 workdays of the self-disclosure or positive screening. If there is reason to believe that the participant is in immediate danger of serious abuse, and the participant consents to do so, assist them in contacting family violence services immediately.

The purpose of the in-depth assessment is to evaluate the participant's situation and determine the extent to which the violence is an impediment to self-sufficiency. The assessment (Attachment 5, DSS-6965) must be administered in a private and confidential setting. No partners may be in attendance at the assessment. The participant’s ability to work or participate in required Work First activities, the extent and volatility of the situation, the barriers to self-sufficiency and the needed services will be determined. The county department of social services is responsible for providing the DSS-6965 to the individual/agency that is chosen to conduct the assessments.

Based on the assessment, a safety plan will begin to evolve. It will be developed jointly by the family violence service provider and the participant.

NOTE: If a participant does not self-disclose or screen positive but there is evidence of family violence, make a referral to a family violence service provider. The participant is not required to follow through with the referral. However, continue to work with the participant and if self-disclosure or a request for services occurs in the future, refer for assessment at that time.