Applies To: This policy applies to child welfare employees.
Policy Number & Title: 2541. Risk Assessment
Effective Date: March 20, 2026
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance on risk assessments.
Authority
RCW 26.44.030 Reports – Duty and authority to make – Duty of receiving agency Duty to notify – Case planning and consultation – Penalty for unauthorized exchange of information – Filing dependency petitions – Investigations– Interviews of children – Record – Risk assessment process
Policy
The Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) is required to complete risk assessments when investigating or assessing allegations of abuse or neglect of children or youth on screened-in referrals to confirm the need for services.
Original Date: October 22, 2007
Revised Date: March 20, 2026
Review Date: March 31, 2030
Approved by: Natalie Green, Assistant Secretary of Child Welfare Division
