Give social workers the tools they need to do their jobs

Report: Children's social care inadequate
Louisville Courier-Journal, Jan. 5, 2006, pg. A1.

Kentucky children at risk of abuse or neglect are not assured of protection from the state social- service system, according to a study released yesterday by children's advocates.

The report says chronic under funding, growing demand and inconsistent performance by social workers threaten the system. The findings are based on confidential interviews with 255 people involved with or familiar with the social work .

Workers report "terrible morale" and lack the proper equipment, including laptop computers and cell phones , said David Richart, author of the report.

State officials said they are working on many issues. "Our children deserve a safe environment," said Dr. Eugene Foster, state undersecretary for families and children.Quality, location are related.