What is the purpose of a child welfare assessment?

The purpose of a child welfare assessment is to evaluate a child’s safety, needs, and strengths. This assessment is a foundational process within child welfare services, focusing on the well-being of the child and ensuring that their environment is supportive and safe. It encompasses a wide range of factors, including the child's physical and emotional status, their developmental needs, and the dynamics within the family unit.

By identifying both strengths and needs, the assessment process helps to create effective intervention plans that can address any safety concerns while also leveraging the positive aspects of the child's life, such as supportive relationships or community resources. This holistic approach ensures that the welfare of the child remains the central focus, aligning with the objectives of child protective services to promote healthy development and well-being.

The other options may pertain to relevant aspects of social services but do not encapsulate the primary and essential objective of child welfare assessments, which is centered on the child’s overall safety and welfare in the context of their environment.