Auditors released a scathing review of the state’s foster care system Wednesday, revealing that the Department for Children and Families doesn’t check the backgrounds of people in foster homes as often as needed, doesn’t ensure monthly in-person visits take place, and grants nearly all requests for exceptions to rules governing foster homes.
The audit also found low morale among case management staff, with some workers pointing to insufficient training. Turnover also has affected their ability to do their jobs, staff members said.