Safe Havens Supervised Visitation Program
In 2003, the Mayor's Office to Combat Domestic Violence, the Administration for Children's Services and two community based organizations began implementing a federal Safe Havens grant for a supervised visitation program in Queens specifically for families who have experienced domestic violence.
Through the program, court-ordered visits and exchanges of children between separated parents will be monitored by trained social workers in a safe environment. Parents can also receive counseling and support services in their language.
Domestic Violence Screening and Enhanced Training
On occasion, domestic violence victims come into contact with child welfare service providers before they are ready to seek assistance. In response, the Administration for Children's Services (ACS) enhanced domestic violence screening and assessment tools for child protective staff. They also developed and implemented new training programs for staff and preventive service programs Citywide.
The implementation of new screening and assessment tools and related training has improved the ability of child protective specialists and preventive program staff to respond to child safety issues. It provides victims of domestic violence with necessary safety planning assistance and referrals to appropriate community resources.
Clinical Consultation Program
In 2002, ACS launched the Clinical Consultation Program, which places 12 domestic violence coordinators in ACS child protective field offices throughout the City. These consultants work as part of a multidisciplinary team which also includes mental health and substance abuse specialists and a team coordinator. The domestic violence consultants provide case-specific consultation, office-based training, and assistance with referrals for community based resources.