WTFDCF? "Kids per Social Worker" Ratio Shocks Even Embattled Former DCF Commissioner

The number of kids and families assigned to each Mass. DCF social worker, who are responsible for abused and neglected children, has soared to 22 to 27 families per staffer.  That's more than twice what's recommended by the Child Welfare League of America.

How serious is the situation?  Even former Mass. DCF Commissioner Harry Spence, whose six-year term included the infamous Rebecca Riley case, says he's shocked.  "It's horrific if it's risen to 22 to 27," says Spence.  "The single most fundamental issue is caseload. It actually provides a line in the sand as to whether real improvement is possible. At 27 you can't do anything."

The Child Welfare League of America, which sets nationally recognized standards for social workers, says caseloads should be limited to 12 to 15 children, according to the suit. The union contract for DCF social workers caps caseloads at 18 families, the suit said.