This publication summarizes state laws and statutes regarding placement of children with relatives when they are removed from their home and enter foster care. In order for states to receive federal payments for foster care and adoption assistance, federal law requires that they "consider giving preference to an adult relative over a nonrelated caregiver when determining placement for a child, provided that the relative caregiver meets all relevant state child protection standards." Most states give preference or priority to relative placements in their statutes. This publication discusses definitions of "relative," financial support for relative placement, and adoption by relatives.
Connecticut Placement of Children With Relatives is a legal procedure that allows relatives of a child who has been removed from their parents' care to provide a safe and stable home for them. This process ensures that children are placed in the care of their relatives to maintain familial connections and provide a familiar and supportive environment. The Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) is responsible for the Placement of Children With Relatives in the state. They carefully assess the suitability of relatives and the quality of their homes to determine if they can adequately meet the child's needs. The department considers factors such as the relative's relationship with the child, their ability to provide a safe and nurturing environment, and any potential risks or concerns. There are different types of Connecticut Placement of Children With Relatives procedures, including: 1. Kinship Foster Care: In this arrangement, the child is placed with a relative who becomes their foster parent. The relative must meet all the requirements and regulations of a licensed foster home. They receive financial support and ongoing support services from the state to ensure the child's well-being and development. 2. Informal Relative Care: Sometimes, formal foster care is not necessary, and the child can be placed with a relative in an informal arrangement. The DCF may still conduct an assessment to ensure the child's safety and may provide limited support as needed. 3. Guardianship: In cases where the child cannot return to their parents' care, guardianship may be established with a relative. This arrangement gives the relative legal custody of the child and allows them to make decisions regarding the child's welfare, education, and healthcare while still maintaining the child's legal ties to their birth family. 4. Adoption by Relatives: In certain situations, when parental rights have been terminated, relatives may have the opportunity to adopt the child. Adoption provides a permanent legal relationship between the child and the relative, granting the same rights and responsibilities as if the child were born to them. Connecticut Placement of Children With Relatives plays a vital role in prioritizing the well-being and stability of children who have been removed from their parents' care. By placing them with relatives in safe and supportive homes, the state aims to ensure that children maintain vital connections to their families while receiving the care they need to thrive.
