The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS) today announced the release of its comprehensive report summarizing findings from the statewide Child Welfare Listening Tour. The report captures the voices of hundreds of West Virginians who shared their experiences and ideas to strengthen the child welfare system.
Over the course of eight in-person sessions and several targeted virtual forums, DoHS gathered input from more than 350 registered participants across 44 counties. The report reflects perspectives from service providers, parents and grandparents, kinship caregivers, youth, legislators, legal professionals and community advocates.
Secretary Alex Mayer of the West Virginia Department of Human Services said, “Releasing this report is more than just documenting what we heard, it is a commitment to act. The voices of families, caregivers, and caseworkers will help shape policy and practice changes that move us toward a stronger, more supportive child welfare system.”
Key themes highlighted in the report include:
- The need for consistency across counties and standardized practices statewide
- Improved communication and transparency with families and caregivers
- Expanded access to mental health and wraparound services
- Inclusion of foster, kinship and biological parents in decision-making
- Support for the workforce through training, resources and culture change
DoHS Bureau for Social Services Commissioner Lorie Bragg said, “This report reflects not only the challenges, but also the opportunities for real change. We are taking the stories, concerns, and solutions we heard and using them to guide next steps in policy, practice, and training. We remain committed to ensuring this process stays collaborative and transparent.”
Next Steps
DoHS will convene a stakeholder advisory committee. The department will also use the report’s findings to shape workforce initiatives, strengthen prevention efforts and enhance support for children and families.
The full report is now available on the Bureau for Social Services website at dhhr.wv.gov/bss/reports/Pages/default.aspx.
