Page 138
138
It is the responsibility of SCDSS to advise clients on what to look for in choosing FFN providers. It is the client’s responsibility to monitor their FFN arrangement. SCDSS explains the necessary forms and the payment procedures. Additionally, SCDSS requires FFN providers to self-certify the existence of a smoke detector and fire extinguisher in the home where the child will be served. When these basic health and safety requirements are not available, the FFN provider must purchase these items and may request reimbursement up to $45.00. The Child Care Scholarship Program Control Center Staff must use the Family, Friend, and Neighbor Provider Health and Safety Grant Reimbursement Request, DSS Form 3778, to request the reimbursement.
INSPECTIONS FOR LICENSE-EXEMPT IN-HOME CARE Non-related FFNs (care in both in/out of the child’s home) are monitored by Child Care Licensing for compliance with background checks, CPR/First Aid certification and Health and Safety Pre-service training. These providers receive an annual unannounced visit.
5.7.4 DENIAL OF FFN ARRANGEMENTS Denial of FFN arrangements include, but are not limited to: • Potential FFN provider who resides in the same household as the child approved for child care services. • Any asterisked items on the FFN forms that are answered in the negative. • A founded or open Child Protective Services investigation and support allegation against a provider who is known to the public (e.g., a provider is involved in an active CPS case). • SCDSS has public knowledge of a criminal allegation that may jeopardize the health and safety of children, at State Office discretion. • The child care worker suspects that the provider is under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of application or subsequently thereafter. • An individual receiving Child Care Scholarship Program services for their own child, grandchild, foster child or other child in their custody cannot become an FFN provider for someone else. • The FFN provider requested is the child’s absent parent or the parent’s significant other (spouse, girlfriend, boyfriend, life partner, etc.) that resides either in or out of the home.