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DCS CW Manual/Chapter 16 Section 2: Assistance for Unlicensed Relative Placements 5 of 9

5. The LOD/DM will send the request for additional funding (RM appeal) to the RM for final approval or denial; 6. The RM will submit a copy to the RFM, if approved; and 7. The RM will notify the LOD/DM of the final determination via written correspondence.

PRACTICE GUIDANCE Relative Placement Options Adult relatives (18 and older) to be considered for placement include but are not limited to: 1. Adult siblings including step and half-siblings; 2. Maternal or paternal grandparents; 3. Adult aunts or uncles; 4. Adult cousins;

Note: The individuals must be first or second cousins.

5. Parents and extended family of half-siblings (e.g., adult siblings, grandparents, adult aunts or uncles, and adult cousins); 6. Former step-parents and extended family of former step-parents (e.g., adult siblings, grandparents, adult aunts or uncles, and adult cousins); 7. Other adult relatives suggested by either parent of a child including but not limited to extended cousins, great aunts or uncles, great or great-greats; or 8. Any other individual with whom a child has an established and significant relationship. Relative placement with an individual who is not related by blood, marriage or adoption This is an individual with whom a child has an established and significant relationship. The relationship with the child will be other relative and must: 1. Have the characteristics of a family relationship. The relationship should have the same characteristics or be similar to the relationship that the child has with an individual related to them by blood, marriage, or adoption; 2. Have existed prior to agency’s current involvement with the child or family; and 3. Be verified through interviews or attested by the written or oral designation of the child or of another person, including other relatives related to the child by blood, marriage, or adoption.

Former long-term foster parents may be considered as relative placements in cases where the child is the victim of repeat maltreatment or returning to out-of-home care. FCMs should staff with the FCM Supervisor and LOD to determine which type of placement is appropriate (i.e., Foster Care or Relative Placement). Consideration should be given to the child’s report of the relationship and the potential for permanency.

Credible evidence showing that the individual performs or has performed a substantial role in the upbringing or material support of the child should be documented in the Management Gateway for Indiana’s Kids (MaGIK). The placement recommendation should be staffed with the FCM Supervisor and LOD, if needed. DCS placement recommendation must be approved by the court.

Note: Placement with a relative related by blood, marriage, or adoption must be ruled out before considering any other out-of-home placement, with the first consideration being given to an appropriate noncustodial parent.