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A-8261 Division of Welfare and Supportive Services EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING Eligibility and Payments Manual Role of Social Worker MTL 13/05 13 Nov 01 have been modified or waived for victims of domestic violence, refer to Manual Section A-2200 for “Good Cause” waiver information. Social workers administer the Substance Abuse Subtle Screening Inventory (SASSI) tests to TANF participants suspected of chemical dependency. TANF participants identified with a high likelihood of a substance-related disorder may be referred to a contracted substance abuse provider for further testing. In cases where chemical dependency has been determined to be an issue, a social worker determines the need for a protective payee to ensure the TANF grant goes toward meeting the needs of the children. Social workers administer additional assessments to TANF participants to identify barriers to self-sufficiency such as domestic violence, learning disabilities, problem gambling and cognitive processing issues. If assessment results indicate barriers to self-sufficiency, social workers refer participants to contract or community providers for further assessment and treatment.

Social workers may arrange for and sit as members on multi-disciplinary teams consisting of a variety of community resources, such as school district counselors, other agency social workers, probation officers, public health nurses, and medical professionals.

Social workers determine the appropriateness of living arrangements for pregnant/parenting teens no longer able to reside in the home of their parents (see manual section A-320).

Social workers determine and arrange for alternative living arrangements for pregnant or parenting teens no longer able to reside in the home of their parents. 826.1 Intra-Office Referral To and From Division Social Workers TANF households requiring the assistance of a social worker will be referred to appropriate Division Social Workers in accordance to the procedures established in their office. Referrals to and from a Division Social Worker must be documented. 826.2 Significant Barriers to Employment Social workers may be assigned to cases identified with significant barriers to employment. Significant barriers are identified as, but not limited to, the following:

● Known substance abuse issues ● Mental health issues for self or dependents, including severe depression, known or suspected ● The prevention of a participant's involvement in work activities or employment due to the caring of immediate family members with disabilities (NEON code I) ● History of physical or sexual abuse which prevent the participant's involvement with work activities or employment