Domestic Abuse Referral Process

When a CalWORKs client discloses domestic abuse, determine the type of situation:

  • Emergency - Client is actively fleeing domestic violence.
  • Non-emergency - Client has previously experienced domestic violence and is seeking services.

Emergency Referral

The EW/AEC/EC must do the following when an emergency domestic abuse situation arises:

  1. Provide the client with the 24-hour Support Line at 800-572-2782.
    1. For EMERGENCY/UNSAFE situations, call 9-1-1.
  2. Create a referral in the DEBS Referral Application for the CalWORKs Social Worker (SW)/Domestic Violence (DV) Advocate.

Note: Emergency referrals are assigned to a CalWORKs SW/DV Advocate immediately.

Non-Emergency Referral

The following must be done when a non-emergency domestic abuse situation arises:

  1. EW/AEC/EC:
    1. Completes the Authorization for Release of Information (SCD 1029).
    2. Completes a referral in the DEBS Referral Application .
  2. CalWORKs Employment Services (CWES) Client Services Technician (CST):
    1. Assigns the case to a CalWORKs SW/DV Advocate.

CalWORKs SW/DV Advocate Actions

For CalWORKs SW/DV Advocate actions on all domestic abuse referrals, refer to the Domestic Abuse (DA) - Referral Process topic in CWES Handbook Chapter 17.

Related Topics

Domestic Abuse

Mandated Reporting & Requesting Waivers

Domestic Abuse Forms

Domestic Abuse Exemption/Extender

Domestic Abuse Good Cause

Battered Non-citizen Status