4307. Voluntary Placement Agreement

Applies To: This policy applies to caseworkers.

Policy Number & Title: 4307. Voluntary Placement Agreement

Effective Date: July 23, 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance when Voluntary Placement Agreements (VPA) are needed to place children or youth in out-of-home care VPAs are:

To be collaboratively used with families and their supports.
Time-limited.
The least restrictive plan in efforts to prevent a dependency action.

Authority

RCW 13.34.130 Order of disposition for a dependent child, alternatives-Petition seeking termination of parent-child relationship-Placement with relatives, foster family home, group care facility, or other suitable persons-Placement of an Indian child in out-of-home care-Contact with siblings

RCW 13.34.245 Voluntary consent to foster care placement for Indian child-Validation-Withdrawal of consent-Termination

RCW 74.13.031 Duties of department-Child welfare services-Children’s services advisory committee

RCW 74.15.020 Definitions

WAC 110-50-0060 What must a parent do to place the child in foster care with the department?

WAC 110-50-0070 Under what circumstances may a parent sign a consent for voluntary placement of a child in foster care with the department.

WAC 110-50-0080 How long may a voluntary placement last with the department?

WAC 110-50-0090 May the department grant an exception to the length of stay in a voluntary placement?

Policy

Caseworkers:

Must follow these policies:
1. Indian Child Welfare (ICW) Voluntary Placement Agreements when there is reason to know children are or may be Indian children.
2. Out-of-Home Placements when making placement decisions.
Must not use VPAs when children or youth are placed:
1. Outside of Washington State.
2. In out-of-home care when the youth is 18 years or older, unless they are entering or re-entering the Extended Foster Care (EFC) program.
May use VPAs for up to 90 days when:
1. A safety threat or present danger exists that cannot be managed in the home and services provided during a 90-calendar day period may eliminate the need for court intervention.
2. Parents or guardians need temporary care for their children or youth while undergoing medical care or treatment and there are no alternative placement resources.
3. The children’s or youths’ other parent or guardian is not immediately available to provide care.