Unannounced visits feel threatening to families

Abc

Walk in a Caseworker's Shoes

A decision-based simulation that reveals how assumptions, power imbalances, and limited information shape child protection outcomes. No winners. No losers. Only understanding.

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The Martinez Family Case Synopsis

A referral comes in from a school counselor. 7-year-old Sofia Martinez has been arriving at school tired, wearing the same clothes multiple days in a row. Her grades have dropped. The counselor suspects neglect at home. You receive the referral on a Monday morning. The school counselor's report is detailed but contains phrases like 'the family seems disengaged' and 'the mother appeared disheveled during pickup.' You have the report, but no direct observation yet. Your supervisor assigns you the case. You have 48 hours to make initial contact.

Choose Your Approach

You chose to visit the home unannounced and see conditions firsthand.

The Result

You lost 5 points in emotional health & family

 stability, you've created a power imbalance of 20

 points, & you even lost 15 points in family trust.

💭 Unannounced visits gather real information but can feel threatening to families, especially those who've experienced institutional harm before