Foster care facilities strive to support families while providing a safe and nurturing environment for children. State-funded foster care facilities can face challenges while achieving this mission. That’s why Marsh McLennan Agency implemented a comprehensive approach based on best practices to improve safety and reduce workers’ compensation claims in foster care.
Enhanced Training Programs: To equip staff with the necessary skills and knowledge, we developed training programs. These programs included behavioral management training, where staff learn techniques for de-escalating potentially violent situations and managing aggressive behaviors without resorting to physical force. Clear and actionable safety protocols are established to guide staff in handling incidents of violence, ensuring their safety and the safety of the children. Crisis intervention training is another training program to enable staff to effectively manage and defuse high-stress situations.
Additional Insurance Coverage: Recognizing that training alone is not sufficient, we introduce additional insurance coverages to provide comprehensive protection. We implement expanded workers’ compensation coverage, encompassing both physical and psychological injuries. This ensures that staff have access to the necessary medical and mental health support. We can also introduce specific coverage for incidents of assault, providing financial compensation and support for affected employees, when needed.
Proactive Risk Management Services: To continuously support and improve safety, risk management services should be integrated into the facility’s operations. Regular safety audits identify and rectify potential safety hazards within a facility. Employee support programs prioritize the mental health and well-being of staff, acknowledging the high-stress nature of their work. When an incident does occur, a thorough review should be conducted to understand what happened and identify preventive measures for similar situations in the future.
If your foster care facility is facing similar challenges, we encourage you to contact a Marsh McLennan Agency advisor today. Our expertise in high-risk environments can help protect your employees and enhance the quality of care you provide.
