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Adult Protective Services (APS) social workers in North Carolina have significant duties and powers to protect disabled adults who are at risk of abuse, neglect, or exploitation and in need of protective services. Their primary role is to ensure the safety, well-being, and self-determination of these adults. Here are the key duties and powers of APS social workers in North Carolina:
Evaluation APS social workers are responsible for receiving and assessing reports or referrals regarding potential abuse, neglect, or exploitation of disabled adults in need of protective services. They conduct thorough evaluations to gather relevant information, interview involved parties, and assess the safety and well-being of the adult in question.
Assessment APS social workers assess the physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being of disabled adults to determine their needs and the level of risk they face. They evaluate factors such as living conditions, access to necessary services, medical conditions, cognitive functioning, and the presence of any signs of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
Safety Planning If an APS social worker determines that a disabled adult is in immediate danger, they develop and implement safety plans. These plans aim to protect the adult from further harm and may involve coordinating emergency interventions, arranging for temporary shelter, or facilitating access to protective services.
Collaboration and Coordination APS social workers collaborate with various agencies, professionals, and community resources to ensure the safety and well-being of disabled adults. They work closely with law enforcement, healthcare providers, legal authorities, and other social services agencies to coordinate interventions, share information, and provide appropriate services.
Supportive Services APS social workers connect disabled adults with supportive services and resources. They assess the individual's needs and make referrals to community-based programs, healthcare providers, counseling services, Legal Aid, and other relevant resources that can help address their specific challenges and protect their well-being.
Protective Interventions In situations where immediate safety is at risk or when individuals are unable or unwilling to accept assistance voluntarily, APS social workers may initiate protective interventions. This can include seeking court orders, initiating guardianship proceedings, or coordinating with law enforcement to ensure the individual’s safety.
Documentation and Reporting APS social workers maintain accurate and detailed records of their evaluations, assessments, interventions, and services provided. They document their findings, recommendations, and the actions taken to protect the disabled adult. They also have a legal duty to report suspected abuse, neglect or exploitation of a disabled adult to the district attorney as required by G.S. 108A-9.
It’s important to note that APS social workers in North Carolina operate within the framework of state laws, regulations, and agency policies. Consulting the North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services, the local Department of Social Services, or legal professionals specializing in elder law can provide more comprehensive information on the duties and powers of APS social workers.