Caseworker Perceptions of Private Agency Family Safety Program Effectiveness

Abstract

Scholarly research on governmental privatization efforts has expanded in many areas. However, less is known about the effectiveness of family safety privatization efforts at the state level. In Florida, family safety privatization efforts have been underway for several years now, and while evaluations are taking place, they do not reflect one key piece of information—the perceptions of family safety workers. Interviews with former and current family safety workers who work or worked for public and private family safety agencies in one Florida County are examined to assess the impact of program privatization. The model of care that has been instituted post-privatization (Coordination, Advocacy, Resources, Education and Support [CARES]) has been perceived as more effective than the former state model; however, respondents noted several problems that accompanied the shift to privatization. These issues along with recommendations for future planning are explored.