Worker Responsibilities - WAC 388-452-0010

Screen all persons approved for TANF at the initial application interview and each eligibility review for circumstances of family violence.

Provide referral information to individuals in need of counseling and support services.

Delay work search activities when participation would: Make it more difficult for the individual to escape family violence. Penalize individuals who have been or are at risk of becoming victims of family violence, or who are at further risk of abuse.

You may waive the following: Time limits on receipt of TANF, after the individual has received TANF for 52 months. Paternity and child support cooperation requirements. Other WorkFirst requirements that unfairly penalize victims or make it more difficult to escape family violence.

Keep information about victims of family violence confidential as required by RCW 74.04.060 . Exception: You must report incidents of child abuse or neglect to the proper law enforcement agency. This includes child rape, child molestation and sexual misconduct with a minor. RCW 26.44.030(4) provides these guidelines.

Provide information about the Family Violence Option, both orally and in writing to all TANF individuals. Case Managers will provide the client with a copy of the Open the Door brochure at the initial application interview and at each eligibility review. The brochure tells the client about the Family Violence Option and how we can help.

Accept allegations of family violence by a victim as enough evidence to substantiate the claim of violence. Other evidence of family violence may include any of the following sources: Police, government agency, or court records. Documentation from a source from which the victim has sought aid in dealing with family violence. Statement from any other individual with knowledge of the circumstances that provide the basis for the claim. Physical evidence of family violence. Other evidence that may help identify a victim of family violence.

Show sensitivity in handling situations involving a victim or potential victim of family violence.

Provide an environment in which the individual can disclose family violence. This includes interviewing the individual alone whenever possible.