Five Steps to a Stronger Child Welfare Workforce

Summary

Drawing on lessons learned from the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s multiyear effort in child protection workforce development, this publication outlines five clear steps that child welfare agency leaders can take to build and maintain a strong, stable frontline workforce. Each step identifies an implementation timeline, practical tips and tools, plus real-world perspectives from agency partners.

Table of Contents

• Introduction: Hiring and Retaining the Right People
• Step 1: Partner with HR
• Step 2: Get Strategic — Build Your Leadership Capacity and Use Your Wit
• Step 3: Create a Competency-Based Culture
• Step 4: Develop Data and Build a Dashboard
• Step 5: Build a Positive Work Environment
• Conclusion

Key Takeaway

Wanted: Talented, effective and engaged child welfare employees

This five-step process teaches child welfare leaders how to measurably improve their hiring and retention policies. The goal? Ensure that agencies have the right frontline staff in place and engaged so that children and families can thrive.