Social Worker how-to

How to Build a Safety Plan with a Family

Plans work best when families help make them.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Plans work best when families help make them. In short: identify; ask; agree, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Identify the safety concern.

  2. Ask about family strengths and supports.

  3. Agree on specific actions.

  4. Name who will do what.

  5. Set check-in dates.

  6. Write and share the plan.

Safety reminders for social workers

  • Share your schedule for field visits
  • Trust your instincts and leave unsafe situations
  • Follow agency safety protocols
  • Use supervision and self-care to prevent burnout

Case plan · Safety plan · CPS · Mandated reporter · Foster care · Kinship care: see the full social worker glossary.

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