You may file a complaint if you think DCYF did not consider or make the changes you need, or if you think DCYF has treated you unfairly because of your disability.
You may file an official complaint in one or two ways:
If you need help with your complaint, email DCYF’s ADA Accessibility Program or call 360-480-7230 (Relay: 7-1-1).
Complaint Filing Process
- Submit Your Complaint
Send your complaint to DCYF (see above). You must do this within one year of the event or the date unfair treatment happened. - Review
DCYF checks if the complaint is on time and sends it to the right team (Civil Rights or Disability/ADA). Sometimes we may send your concerns to another department in DCYF to help with your issue. - Initial Contact
A team member will contact you within 15 days to talk about your complaint and how the process works. - Investigation
DCYF staff will look into the case. They can talk to witnesses, interview staff, and review records. - Results
You will receive the written findings and any suggested actions within 60 days. If it takes longer, we will tell you why it is taking longer and whether a new date will be given. - Other Options
If you disagree with the findings, you can appeal our decision within 15 days of getting the written findings or meeting with us, whichever is later. No matter what the result, DCYF will give you information on what you can do next if you disagree.
DCYF will not retaliate or act against you if you request modifications or file a complaint. Retaliation is not allowed. If you believe that someone at DCYF has retaliated against you because you asked for support or help due to your disability or because you filed a complaint, you can contact anyone listed on the Getting Help page.
Other Ways to File a Complaint
You do not have to file a complaint with DCYF. Below are other agencies that may accept your complaint.
Washington Office of the Family and Children's Ombuds (OFCO)
- OFCO website
- OFCO Complaint Form
- 1(800) 571-7321 (relay users dial 7-1-1)
