Alternative Response in Maryland

Definitions: This number represents new alternative response cases.

Alternative Response is a type of response to low risk child abuse and neglect allegations, where rather than investigating a family and naming a caretaker as a maltreator, the Local Department of Social Services partners with the family to complete a comprehensive assessment of: (1) Risk of harm to the child; (2) Risk of subsequent child abuse or neglect; (3) Family strengths and needs; and (4) The provision of or referral for necessary services.

Data Source: Maryland Department of Human Resources

Footnotes: Alternative response went through an implementation phase.

NA indicates alternative response had not been initiated at the time or data is not yet available.

Definitions: This number represents new alternative response cases.

Alternative Response is a type of response to low risk child abuse and neglect allegations, where rather than investigating a family and naming a caretaker as a maltreator, the Local Department of Social Services partners with the family to complete a comprehensive assessment of: (1) Risk of harm to the child; (2) Risk of subsequent child abuse or neglect; (3) Family strengths and needs; and (4) The provision of or referral for necessary services.

Data Source: Maryland Department of Human Resources

Footnotes: Alternative response went through an implementation phase.

NA indicates alternative response had not been initiated at the time or data is not yet available.