Dear BCASW Members,

BCASW has heard from MCFD Social Work staff regarding problems with the new Integrated Case Management System and their fears for the safety of children as a direct result.  This is an exceedingly stressful time for all involved in the changeover. Increasing risk for children is not anyone’s goal.  By now Ministry staff will have received communications recognizing the flaws in the process, plans for remedies and a request for input from staff. We have gathered comments without identifying individuals and we will be sharing these concerns with Stephen Brown and Minister McNeil. None of the comments that we received dispute that the old system needed to go. The problems lie in the planning and roll out of the new system and some apparent flaws within the system itself. The strongest messages from our members re the ICM have been about perceived heightened risk to children’s safety and the loss of precious time for direct social work with families.

We know that there is anger, frustration, fear and weariness in large measure.  We will make every effort to relay these serious concerns to the ministry and to share ideas for solutions to the problems. Please keep letting us know your ideas on what is needed to “fix this mess” and facilitate the work of keeping children safe.

Sincerely,  Carol RossChair, Child Welfare Committee, BCASW

Barb Keith President, BCASW

Dianne Heath Executive Director, BCASW