Supervised Independent Living Placement

0100-560.40 | Revision Date: 05/14/19

Overview

This policy provides guidance on when to use a Supervised Independent Living Placement (SILP) for nonminor dependents and explains the approval process for a SILP.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Policy

Supervised Independent Living Placement (SILP)

Out-of-State SILPs

Tribal SILPs

SILP with Parent or Guardian

SILP Approval

SILP Readiness Assessment

SILP Readiness Assessment Update

Approving the Physical Unit

Annual SILP Re-Inspection

SILP Roommates

SILP Payment

Designated Payee

Grievance Process

Procedure

Identifying a SILP as a Possible Placement

CSW Responsibilities

Out of Home Care Management Division (OHCMD) Responsibilities

SILP Inspector Responsibilities

Out-of-State SILP

CSW Responsibilities

ICPC Unit Responsibilities

ARA Responsibilities

A SILP Physical Unit is Approved

CSW Responsibilities

A SILP Physical Unit is Not Approved

CSW Responsibilities

Using Job Corps, Tribally Approved Housing or Dorms/University Housing as a SILP

CSW Responsibilities

Responding to a Health & Safety Risk in a SILP Unit

CSW Responsibilities

Responding to a Dispute that is Brought to the Court

CSW Responsibilities

SCSW Responsibilities

Approvals

Helpful Links

Attachments

Forms 

Referenced Policy Guides

Statutes

Version Summary

This policy guide was updated from the 12/09/15 version, to provide new information regarding nonminor dependents (NMDs) in a SILP with a parent/guardian per ACL 17-83. Clarification regarding an alternate payee has been added. Instruction regarding the approval of Space Heaters has been added, thus canceling FYI 17-11, Assessing the Use of Portable Space Heaters for Supervised Independent Living Placements (SILP) dated 03/15/17. It also reflects that the SILP section is now under Out of Care Management Division, clarifies the out of state SILP approval requirement and site inspection responsibilities and standardizes the assignment of out of state and out of county SILP inspections. It also provides guidelines regarding safe sleeping practices, Corrective Action Plans and the replacement of the DCFS 123-A, SILP Readiness Assessment by the SOC 157C, Standardized SILP Readiness Assessment Tool.

POLICY

Supervised Independent Living Placement (SILP)

A Supervised Independent Living Placement (SILP) is a flexible, non-licensed foster care placement available to nonminor dependents (NMDs) participating in the Extended Foster Care Program (EFC). It is intended to provide NMDs the opportunity for highly independent living experiences while they receive foster care payments and Supportive Transition (ST) services.  SILP placements are for NMDs who are developmentally ready to live independently and in a less restrictive environment.

SILP placements include approved:

• Apartments, alone or with roommates;

• Single Room Occupancies, which may have shared bathrooms and/or kitchens;

• A rented room, including from a former caregiver/relative; and
  

• Home of Parent or Guardian; and

• Job Corps, Tribally Approved Homes and Dorms/University housing, including those out-of-state.

A SILP is not intended to be:

• An emergency placement for NMDs lacking suitable placements.

• A placement for “hard to place” NMDs.

• A placement for NMDs requiring significant supportive services.

• A placement for NMDs with high risk mental/physical health needs.

Living with appropriate relatives is acceptable and should be encouraged. For example:

• Same home as parent or guardian.
  
  
• There may be relatives that were not able to meet the ASFA/RFA requirement, however, the home may be an appropriate SILP.
  
  
• A room may be rented from a former relative that was ASFA/RFA approved.

For information regarding CalWORKs and SILPs refer to the Q.&A. Regarding CalWORKs and SILPs.

Out-of-State and Out-of-County SILPs

Eligible NMDs may be considered for an out-of-state SILP under the following circumstances:

• An Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC) agreement with the receiving state or;

• Supportive Transition (ST) services provided by a locally contracted agency in the receiving state (when ICPC is not available).

• Any other out-of-state SILP placements will be assessed on a case-by-case basis and the CSW should consult with their ARA when ICPC is not available.
  
  
  

In all cases, the DCFS ICPC Unit must be contacted to determine if the other state will accept or continue an ICPC for the NMD. As soon as the CSW is made aware that an EFC eligible or potentially eligible youth is planning to apply to and/or attend a college or university in a state other than California, the CSW should contact the DCFS ICPC Unit for consultation regarding the receiving states policy regarding NMDs.

ICPC Referrals must be submitted at least six (6) months if possible, prior to the planned placement date to allow sufficient time for processing by both DCFS and the receiving state.

All out-of-state and out-of-county SILP physical units (with the exception of Job Corps, Tribally Approved Homes and college dorms or other designated university housing) must be approved and annual re-inspection conducted by one of the following:

• The other state (via ICPC)

• A locally contracted agency providing ST services (when there is no ICPC)

• The CSW (when there is no ICPC or locally contracted agency.)
  
  

CSW or designee will have monthly face-to-face contact with the NMD and provide ST services within the parameters of local laws of the receiving state, (only when neither ICPC nor ST services provided by a locally contracted agency are available).

Any days that a NMD resides in an unapproved SILP site will not qualify for payment.

Tribal SILPs

Tribes have the independent authority to approve a SILP using their own socially and culturally appropriate standards.

• SILP units that are on or near a reservation and that have a tribe as the approving agency are subject to their tribal standards.
  

• Tribally approved homes are deemed equivalent to licensing or approval by a state.

• The SOC 157B is adapted for tribal use.  Items on the checklist that are not applicable to standard housing units on the reservation can be excluded from the approval standards. 

• It is recommended that CSWs receive the tribe's permission prior to entering tribal land.

Back to Policy

SILP with Parent or Guardian

Nonminor Dependents (NMDs) assessed as being ready for a SILP may reside in a SILP in the same home as a parent or guardian, including the parent or guardian from whom the youth was initially removed and/or whose parental rights have been terminated, and receive foster care payments as long as DCFS is providing supervision. It is the responsibility of DCFS to consider the circumstances of the NMD and the supervised independent living arrangement to decide whether it would be an appropriate independent living setting.

The term “parent” refers to both a parent from whom the youth was removed and/or whose parental rights have been terminated or any non-custodial parent (e.g., a biological parent, guardian or adoptive parent.) The NMD is not being placed with the parent, being returned home or is in any way under the care or supervision of the parent. The NMD remains a dependent court under the placement, care and supervision of DCFS and must continue to meet all eligibility criteria for EFC and must continue to work with DCFS towards achieving independence, including maintaining monthly contact with their CSW.

Approving a SILP for a NMD in a home where the parent is also residing must follow the same approval process that is utilized for any other SILP including:

• Completion of a SILP Readiness Assessment (SOC 157C) with the NMD to evaluate the NMD’s readiness for a SILP in the home of their parent/guardian,

• Completion of a SILP Approval and Placement Agreement (SOC 157A) and, if appropriate,

• Completion of a SILP Inspection: Checklist of Facility Health and Safety Standards (SOC 157B).
  

The SILP Readiness Assessment tool should be utilized to determine if the NMD is making appropriate decisions with regards to the person(s) with whom they plan to reside. For example, if a parent is known to have an active substance addiction, is an untreated perpetrator of sexual abuse or domestic violence is occurring in the home, that would indicate that the SILP request is not appropriate and should not be approved. Any concerns should be documented in the SILP readiness assessment and, if the concerns rise to the level of indicating that the NMD is not ready for the proposed SILP, the NMD should be directed to explore other placement options, including other SILP arrangements, if appropriate.

When a SILP has been approved for a NMD who will be living with a parent, it may be helpful to assist the NMD and parent in developing a Shared Living Agreement.

In any case where it has been established that a NMD is not ready to receive their payment directly and therefore a payee is required, the parent shall not be allowed to act as the payee for the foster care payment.

When the placing agency denies a NMD’s request to live in a SILP in the same home as a parent, the NMD shall be informed of their right to appeal this decision and shall be provided a copy of the county’s appeal procedures.

SILP Approval

There are two steps to the SILP approval process:

• Assessing the NMDs readiness for a SILP using the SOC 157C, Standardized SILP Readiness Assessment Tool(not required for Job Corps, Tribally Approved Homes and College dorms/University housing, including those out-of-state.

• Approving the physical unit using the SOC 157B, Supervised Independent Living Placement (SILP) Checklist of Facility Health and Safety Standards.

The SOC 157C and SOC 157B must be completed for the following types of SILP placements to be approved:

• Apartments, alone or with roommates

• Single Room Occupancies

• Rented rooms, which may be rented from a former caregiver/relative

• Home of parent/guardian

• Job Corps, Tribally Approved Homes and College dorms/University housing, including those out-of-state do not require completion of the DCFS 123-A and a physical inspection is not required, but the SOC 157B must be completed appropriately.

SILP Readiness Assessment

CSWs must jointly evaluate with the NMD, the NMDs initial and continued readiness for a SILP by completing the SOC 157C, Standardized SILP Readiness Assessment Tool. The SILP Readiness Assessment (not required for Job Corps, Tribally Approved Homes and College dorms/University housing, including those out-of-state). The SILP Readiness Assessment is intended as an opportunity to work with the NMD to determine the most appropriate placement and to evaluate the NMDs preparedness in the specific area(s) identified in the SOC157C. It is not as a means to permanently deny a SILP placement.  The outcome of the SILP Readiness Assessment must be documented on the SOC 157A.  If the NMD disagrees with the outcome of the joint assessment, he/she has the right to a grievance process.

CSWs may note any areas in which the NMD needs to develop additional skills on the SOC 157C. Skills that need to be developed must be transferred into the NMDs Transitional Independent Living Plan (TILP) and must become part of the case plan. Needing additional skills in certain areas is not grounds for denial but may be an indicator that the NMD needs a SILP with support (e.g. a room rented from a relative).

Indicators that NMDs are not ready for a SILP may include, but are not limited to:

• The rent and utilities for a SILP exceeds income;

• The NMD has unstable income;

• The youth lacks knowledge of how to count money, budget, and/or pay bills;

• Due to a serious medical or mental health condition, the youth is unable to care for himself/herself without assistance; and

• The youth is unable to live independently due to alcohol/drug abuse.

SILP Readiness Assessment Update

CSWs must jointly evaluate with the NMD, the NMDs continued readiness for a SILP by completing the SOC 157C, Section 1, Financial Plan and Readiness Assessment Summary under the following circumstance:

• The rent and utilities for a SILP exceeds income (e.g., income reduction due to change in employment or; increase in expenses not addressed in current Financial Plan.

Approval of the Physical Unit

If the SILP Readiness Assessment indicates that the NMD is ready for a SILP, the NMD is responsible for finding his/her own SILP unit and the CSW is responsible for approving the appropriateness of the SILP unit. The Out-of-Home Care Management Division (OHCMD) SILP section completes physical inspections and annual re-inspection for all SILPs in LA County. If ICPC or a contracted agency is not in place, the CSW is responsible for physical inspections and annual re-inspection for all SILPs out-of-state and county. See procedures for out of state SILPs. Job Corps, Tribally Approved Homes and College dorms/University housing, including those out-of-state do not require approval for appropriateness or a physical inspection but the SOC 157B must be completed appropriately. As applicable, OHCMD or case-carrying CSW must complete a physical inspection with the NMD using the SOC 157B, SILP Inspection Checklist, within ten (10) calendar days of receiving the DCFS 123-B, SILP Inspection Request.  If there is an urgent matter, the inspection will be completed within two (2) business days. The SILP begins upon the SILPsapproval and the first SILP payment arrives within sixty (60) days.

SILPs need to meet basic health and safety standards and must have the following amenities:

• Running water

• Heat (refer to Attachment with instructions regarding approval of space heaters)

• Electricity

• Fire escapes (as appropriate)

• No hazards (e.g., exposed electrical wires, black mold and insect, rodent infestations)

Minor issues that can be repaired by the landlord or that may seem undesirable but are not safety hazards are not reasons to disapprove a site.

As applicable, safe sleeping considerations should be part of the SILP Readiness process. In the event that concerns occur after the SILP readiness has been completed, the CSW and SILP Inspector must discuss with the NMD safe sleeping practices. As necessary, the CSW during the SILP readiness determination or thereafter (if the pregnancy or birth occurs after the SILP readiness has been completed), must discuss with the NMD the resources available to purchase a crib or toddler bed (e.g.Early Infant Supplement (EIS) while pregnant, Infant Supplement, etc.); or the CSW assists in exploring availability of Trust Fund or STOP funds, if all other resources are not available.

In the event that there remains a lack of a crib or toddler bed, the inspector may approve the SILP if all other requirements are otherwise met but must develop a Corrective Action Plan (CAP) to address this concern. Payment will start from the date of the approval of the unit, and the CAP should not delay the effective date of payment. The case-carrying CSW must return to the unit the soonest reasonable time necessary to check on the completion of the CAP and by the due date indicated in the CAP. The case-carrying CSW is responsible for checking and following up on the CAP’s completion. If there is any issue regarding the CAP’s completion that cannot be resolved, the staff must consult with the ARA and county counsel.

The date for the completion of a CAP should be the soonest possible, taking into account the ability of and resources available to the youth to complete the required correction with DCFS support as necessary, and the safety of the NMD and his or her child (as applicable). The CSW must document in the Contact Notebook and as applicable, Case Notes, any follow-up actions and active efforts made towards completion of the CAP.

Annual SILP Re-Inspection

A re-inspection of the SILP unit must be conducted annually to ensure no significant changes have occurred to the residence that compromises the safety of the unit. The re-inspection ensures that the SILP is still safe. It does not examine the cleanliness of the unit.

The SOC 157A and SOC 157B must be completed annually to document the annual re-inspection.

If the SILP Readiness Assessment determines that the NMD is ready for a SILP, an annual SOC 157C, Standardized SILP Readiness Assessment Tool does not need to be completed. SOC 157C, does not need to be completed annually, except in the following case:

• However, if a NMD moves from a SILP placement to a regular foster care placement and then wishes to go back to a SILP, a new SILP Readiness Assessment is required.

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SILP Roommates

NMDs have the freedom to choose their roommates. However, CSWs should guide NMDs in selecting appropriate ones, particularly if the prospective roommate is someone he/she does not know well.  It is not required that roommates have background checks, and CSWs do not have the legal authority to conduct them on a potential roommate.

When it is suspected that an NMD who is living in a SILP is being abused by a roommate, it must be reported to local law enforcement rather than adult protective services.

SILP Payment

All NMDs living in a SILP receive the California basic foster care rate the applicable county clothing allowance, and will be the payee of the SILP, unless an Alternate/Designated Payee is indicated. The NMD will receive the payment a month after the SILP approval.  The Specialized Care Increment is not available for a SILP placement.  However, parenting NMDs can receive the infant supplement when residing in a SILP.

In any case where it has been established that a NMD is not ready to receive their payment directly and therefore an alternate payee is required, the parent shall not be allowed to act as the alternate payee for the foster care payment.

Designated Payee

Based on the readiness indicators in the SILP Readiness Assessment, the CSW will determine if the SILP is approved with assistance and the specific indicators which led to this determination.

If the young adult is not approved to receive funds directly, the CSW will assist the youth in identifying who will become the youth’s Designated Payee to receive the SILP payment on behalf of the youth. A parent or guardian shall not be allowed to act as the Designated Payee for the foster care payment.

The start date of the SILP payment to the NMD cannot be initiated any earlier than the date of the approved physical inspection documented on the SOC 157B. NMDs need to be informed that any days they reside in an unapproved site will not qualify for payments.

If an NMD must change SILPs unexpectedly, he/she may live in an unapproved SILP temporarily while awaiting approval of the new SILP.

• An NMD may only be temporarily absent from an approved placement for up to fourteen (14) days in one month.

• OHCMD or the case-carrying CSW must inspect the new SILP site within ten (10) calendar days of the move

• NMDs in SILPs should be informed that such a move could disrupt their payment.

• SILP payments will not be made to NMDs residing in non-approved locations.

Grievance Process

An NMD has the right to a grievance process in the following situations:

• The NMD disagrees with the SOC 157C Standardized SILP Readiness Assessment Tool.

• The NMD disagrees with an unapproved SILP unit.

• The NMD has a conflict with the CSW that cannot be resolved between the CSW and the NMD.

• SILP approval and payments were delayed due to DCFS delay in inspecting the SILP.

To do so, the NMD must complete the DCFS 123-C, The Extended Foster Care Grievance Review Process For Nonminor Dependents.  If the NMD disagrees with the decision made on his/her grievance, the NMD may bring the issue up before the court.  These types of disputes may ultimately be brought before the court by the NMD without first using the grievance process.

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PROCEDURE

Identifying a SILP as a Possible Placement

CSW Responsibilities

1. Explain the following to the NMD:

1. That there are two parts to the SILP approval process:

1. Assessing an NMDs readiness for a SILP

2. Approving the physical unit

2. That the NMD is responsible for finding his/her SILP unit

3. That a NMD may live with his/her parent/guardian.

4. That living with other appropriate relatives is acceptable and encouraged. 

5. That a monthly face-to-face contact with the NMD is still required. 51% of monthly face-to-face contacts must be in the NMDs residence.
6. That frequent moves can disrupt funding and the importance of advance discussion of a planned move.
7. Than any days he/she reside in an unapproved SILP site will not qualify for payment.
8. Any out-of-state SILP will require an ICPC Clearance. Establishment of an ICPC in a state that provides ST services to NMDs will take up to six (6) months. Refer to the "Out-of-State SILP" Procedures section for detailed information.

2. Jointly evaluate with the NMD, the NMDs readiness assessment by completing the SOC 157C Standardized SILP Readiness Assessment Tool.

• Inform the NMD that the SILP payment will not be available until the month following approval of the SILP.

• Inform the NMD of the Grievance Process and provide the DCFS 123C.

3. Review the SILP Readiness Assessment results with the NMD. Based on the results, determine if the NMD is ready for a SILP.

4. If it is determined that the NMD is not ready for a SILP, take the following steps:

1. Clearly explain to the NMD why he/she is not ready for a SILP.

2. Review the skills that need to be improved. Explain that these need skills will be made goals on his/her Transitional Independent Living Plan.

3. Inform the NMD that he/she has the right to a grievance process, if he/she does not agree with the SILP Readiness Assessment.

1. Provide the NMD with the DCFS 123-C, The Extended Foster Care Grievance Review Process For Nonminor Dependents, as needed.

4. Complete the SOC 157A, SILP Approval and Placement Agreement.

1. Indicate that the NMD is not ready for a SILP

2. Provide a copy of the completed SOC 157A to the NMD.

5. If it is determined that the NMD is ready for a SILP, take the following steps:

1. Inform the NMD that the following type of SILPs must be physically inspected and approved before any commitments can be made:

1. Apartments, alone or with roommates

2. Single Room Occupancies (SROs)

3. Rented rooms

2. Provide the NMD with the Young Adult’s Guide to Housing booklet.
3. If the NMD will be living with a roommate, guide the NMD on how to select appropriate roommates/housemates, especially if he/she is are choosing someone they do not know well.
   
1. Refer the NMD to the section Helping Youth Select Roommates in the Young Adult’s Guide to Housing booklet.
2. Introduce NMD to Megan’s law website. Inform the NMD that Megan’s law website allows you to search for sex offenders by zip code.

4. Provide the NMD with the SOC 157B, SILP Checklist of Facility Health and Safety Standards, to assist the NMD in locating a unit that will most likely be approved.
5. Inform the NMD that if a SILP unit is not approved it means that he/she will need to find a more suitable SILP.

6. When the NMD finds a prospective SILP in LA County:

1. Fax the following completed forms to the OHCMD at: (213) 637-0042.

1. SOC 157C, Standardized SILP Readiness Assessment Tool.
2. DCFS 123-B, SILP Inspection Request

2. If an out-of-state SILP, follow-up with the ICPC Unit.

7. If the unit is approved, proceed to A SILP Physical Unit is Approved.

8. If the unit is not approved, proceed to: A SILP Physical Unit is Not Approved.

9. Document all contacts with the NMD in the Contact Notebook and as applicable, any follow-up actions and active efforts made towards completion of a CAP.

Out of Home Care Management Division (OHCMD) Responsibilities

1. Upon receipt of the DCFS 123-B, log in the request.

2. Assign the request to a SILP Inspector within two (2) business days of receiving the request.

3. Inspector has a maximum of ten (10) calendar days to complete the inspection.

SILP Inspector Responsibilities

1. Upon completion or receipt of the DCFS 123-B and the appropriate attachments, contact the NMD to schedule the walk through inspection.

2. Complete the SOC 157B during the walk through inspection with the NMD.
   1. If the heat source will be a portable space heater, follow the instructions on the Attachment for evaluation and approval.

3. Document on the SOC 157B if the SILP unit is approved, not approved, or if there is a plan for correction.

4. Provide a copy of the completed SOC 157B to the NMD.

5. If a plan of correction was made on a prior visit, conduct a subsequent walk through inspection to verify that the corrections were made as agreed.

• Document on the SOC 157B if the SILP is now approved or not approved.

• As applicable, document in the Contact Notebook and Case Notes (if applicable) any follow-up actions and active efforts made towards completion of the CAP.

6. Forward the completed SOC 157B to the OHCMDdesignee.

7. Log the request as completed.

8. Make a copy for OHCMD case files.

9. Fax the completed SOC 157B to the CSW and mail the original copy within 24 hours.

10. Mail a copy of the SOC 157B to the NMD, unless otherwise agreed.

Back to Procedure

Out-of-State SILP

CSW Responsibilities

1. Upon advisement from the dependent youth/NMD that (s)he plans to reside in an out-of-state SILP, have a direct discussion with the dependent youth or NMD as early as possible in the case regarding the conditions by which an out-of-state placement can be considered (ICPC, ST services provided by a locally contracted agency; DCFS direct supervision; SILP Readiness and; approval of physical unit).

2. Consult with the ICPC Unit for specific options in the state the youth would like to reside in.

3. Determine a NMDs readiness for a prospective out-of-state SILP by completing a SOC 157C, where applicable, (not required for Job Corps, Tribally Approved Housing or dorms/university housing).

4. Submit an ICPC Referral when the DCFS ICPC Unit has confirmed that the planned State of residence will service NMDs.

5. Arrange for the provision of ST services by a locally contracted agency in the planned state of residence, when available, and when ICPC will not be provided by that State.

6. When DCFS will be the direct service provider (neither ICPC nor locally contracted agency is available):

• Complete the SOC 157B during the walk through inspection of the planned SILP unit with the NMD (walk through not required for Job Corps, Tribally Approved Housing or dorms/university housing).

• Document on the SOC 157B if the SILP unit is approved, not approved, or if there is a plan for correction.

• Provide a copy of the completed SOC 157B to the NMD.

• If a plan of correction was made on a prior visit, conduct a subsequent walk through inspection to verify that the corrections were made as agreed.

• Document on the SOC 157B if the SILP is now approved or not approved.
  
  

7. Ensure the provision of ongoing ST services via either ICPC, locally contracted agency or direct DCFS in-person contacts.

ICPC Unit Responsibilities

1. Initiate a request for approval to the prospective State's ICPC Liaison to request services including but not limited to:

• Monthly supervision (EFC case management) of the NMD once placed after ICPC approval.

• Provision of supportive services.

• Quarterly progress reports.

• Approval of placements including SILPs (with the exception of college dorms or other designated university housing)

Assistant Regional Administrator (ARA) Responsibilities

1. Review and approve the out-of-state SILP in accordance with all requirements stated in this policy.

Back to Procedure

A SILP Physical Unit Is Approved

CSW Responsibilities

1. Once the completed SOC 157B is received or completed, complete the SOC 157A to document that the NMD is ready for a SILP and that the unit is approved.

1. Obtain the NMDs signature on the SOC 157A.

2. Remind the NMD that the first SILP payment will be received within sixty (60) days following the approval of the SILP by OHCMD.

3. Provide a copy of the SOC 157A and 157B to the NMD.

4. File the forms in the Placement Information Folder (light blue folder) of the NMD.

2. Once the NMD has moved into his/her SILP, use the Foster Care Search System (FCSS) Automated 280 to update the NMDs placement as a SILP and to initiate the SILP payment.

• Ensure that the Start Date of the SILP payment is no earlier than the date the SOC 157B was approved.

• Attach the SOC 157A and 157B.

3. Document the SILP on the NMDs case plan under Case Management Services.

1. Select “Arrange and Maintain Placement.”

2. Enter the following under “Agency Responsibilities for Services” text field:

1. The type of SILP

2. The individualized supervision that will be provided while the NMD remains in SILP

3. Indicate that the NMD will receive Supportive Transition (ST) services.

4. Submit a new DCFS 123-B, SILP Inspection Request, under the following circumstances:

1. Prior to the annual re-inspection a health and safety concern is not corrected within thirty (30) days .

2. The NMD moves.

3. An annual re-inspection is required.

Back to Procedure

A SILP Physical Unit Is Not Approved

CSW Responsibilities

1. Inform the NMD of the following:

1. He/she will not receive a payment since the placement is not approved.

2. He/she has a right to a grievance process if he/she does not agree. Provide the NMD with the DCFS 123-C.

3. He/she has the option of finding a new SILP and that, in the meantime, DCFS will arrange another EFC placement (until he/she finds a new SILP and it is approved).

Back to Procedure

Using Job Corps, Tribally Approved Housing or University/College Housing as a SILP

CSW Responsibilities

1. Complete the SOC 157A and 157B.

• If out-of-state, refer to the Out-of-State SILP Procedure for additional instructions.

2. Complete steps 1.a. - d. and 2. -6. of A SILP Physical Unit is Approved.

3. Arrange for the NMDs placement, in advance, for periods when school is not in session and the university/college housing is closed.

• A SOC 157C and a Physical Inspection of the new, temporary SILP should be initiated two (2) months before the dorm/university housing will close in order to ensure the SILP payment is not interrupted.

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Responding to a Health & Safety Risk in a SILP Unit

CSW Responsibilities

1. Discuss corrective actions with the NMD.

2. Encourage the NMD to request appropriate corrective actions from the landlord or the appropriate entity.

3. If the health and safety risks are not corrected, the DCFS 123-B, SILP Inspection Request, must be submitted for a re-inspection citing the specific reasons for the re-inspection.

Responding to a Dispute that is Brought to the Court

CSW Responsibilities

1. Complete the court report requested by the court. Address the following in it:

1. The current dispute

2. Reasonable efforts made to resolve the dispute

3. Recommendations based on the current assessment and the needs of the NMD

2. When the conflict regards SOC 157C, Standardized SILP Readiness Assessment Tool or the unapproved SILP (SOC 157B), attach a copy of the form.

3. Submit the report to SCSW for approval.

SCSW Responsibilities

1. If appropriate, review and approve the report. 

2. If it is not appropriate to approve the report and if changes are needed, return it to the CSW for corrective action.

Back to Procedure  

APPROVALS

ARA Approval

• Out-of-State SILP

SCSW Approval

• Court reports

• Automated 280

HELPFUL LINKS

Attachments

Q. & A. Regarding CalWORKs and SILPs

Instructions for Assessing the Use of Portable Space-Heaters for SILPs

Forms

CWS/CMS

SOC 157A, Supervised Independent Living Placement (SILP) Approval and Placement Agreement

SOC 157B, Supervised Independent Living Placement (SILP) Checklist of Facility Health and Safety Standards

SOC 157C, Standardized SILP Readiness Assessment Tool

LA Kids

DCFS 123-B, SILP Inspection Request

DCFS 123-C, The Extended Foster Care Grievance Review Process For Nonminor Dependents

DCFS 123-E, DCFS SILP Inspection: Portable Space-Heater Safety Check-List

DCFS 280, Technical Assistance Action Request (for use ONLY when FCSS Automated 280 is not available)

FCSS Automated 280

Young Adult’s Guide to Housing

SOC 157B, Supervised Independent Living Placement (SILP) Checklist of Facility Health and Safety Standards

SOC 157C, Standardized SILP Readiness Assessment Too

Referenced Policy Guides

0080-502.10, Case Plans

0080-505.10, Transitional Independent Living Plan (TILP)

0100-525.10, Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC)

0100-535.25, Extended Foster Care (EFC) Program

0900-506.10, Clothing Allowances

0900-511.10, Rates for Placement and Related Services

MD 14-02, Travel Policy, Travel Advance and Expenses Reimbursement

Statutes

All County Information Notice (ACIN) I-86-08 (November 20, 2008) – Provides information, in part, on the use of tribally approved homes as placement options for children under county jurisdiction.

All County Letter (ACL) 13-82 (October 16, 2013) - Provides instruction regarding CalWORKs and SILPs.

ACL 13-82E (March 25, 2014) - Provides revision to ACL 13-82 instruction regarding CalWORKs and SILPs.

ACL 13-91 (November 1, 2013) - Provides instruction regarding extended foster care and Indian nonminor dependents covered by the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA).

ACL 14-33 (July 3, 2014) - Provides instruction regarding nonminor dependents placed out-of-state.

ACL 17-83 (September 5, 2017) – Provides instruction regarding nonminor dependents in SILP with parent/guardian.

Indian Child Welfare Act, 25 United States Code Section 1931 – States, in part, that tribally approved homes are deemed equivalent to licensing or approval by a state.

Welfare and Institutions Code (WIC) Section 11402.2 – States, in part, the a nonminor dependent may live an in unapproved supervised independent living placement (SILP) temporarily while awaiting approval of his/her new SILP.

WIC Section 11461(a) – Sets rates for children and nonminor dependents placed in a licensed or approved family home.

WIC Section 11461(e)(1) – States, in part, that the specialized care increment rate shall not be paid to a nonminor dependent placed in a SILP.

WIC Section 16501.1(c)(1) – Defines the use of out-of-home placements, including Supervised Independent Living Placements.  NMDs must be provided opportunities to have incremental responsibility to prepare to transition to independent living.

WIC Section 16501.1(f)(16)(A) – States, in part, that for nonminor dependents, the case plan must include a written description of the program and services that will help the nonminor dependent prepare for transition from foster care and assist the youth in meeting the eligibility criteria set forth in Section 11403 and include steps on how the agency is ensuring that the nonminor dependent achieves permanence, including maintaining or obtaining permanent connections to caring and committed adults.  For NMDs, if applicable, shall describe the Supervised Individual Living Placement.

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