What is the aim of a safety plan in child welfare?

The aim of a safety plan in child welfare is to identify actions that protect a child from immediate danger. Safety plans are critical tools used by child welfare professionals to ensure that a child is safe from potential harm while addressing the risks in the child’s environment. These plans typically involve specific strategies to mitigate risks, such as arranging for the child to stay with a trusted relative, providing crisis intervention resources, or outlining steps that caregivers must take to ensure the child’s immediate safety.

By focusing on immediate protective actions, safety plans prioritize the child's well-being and address urgent concerns that could impact their safety in the short term. This approach is essential in safeguarding children and ensuring that they remain protected while more comprehensive assessments and interventions are conducted.