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Size Matters. CWLA CONFERENCE February 24, 2004. Introduction. Karen L. K. Valentine Staff Representative Delaware Public Employees Union, AFSCME, Council 81 302 323-2121. MANAGEABLE CASELOADS.
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Size Matters CWLA CONFERENCE February 24, 2004
Introduction • Karen L. K. Valentine • Staff Representative • Delaware Public Employees Union, AFSCME, Council 81 • 302 323-2121
MANAGEABLE CASELOADS • LEGISLATION Needed because it provides oversight, allows for additional hiring, holds people accountable • LOWER TURNOVER RATES Maintain experienced staff by lowering turnover rates • ACCOUNTABILITY All levels of employees need to be accountable not just the worker • VIGILANCE • Need to constantly monitor caseloads as well as the workplace environment while looking for solutions which are ever evolving • EMPLOYEE INVOLVEMENT Employees involvement increases morale, gives employees a buy-in and often employees know best what works. • COALITIONS All interested parties need to join together
LEGISLATIONWhat it does and why it is necessary • CWLA recommended standards + 2 (average not individualized) • Annual adjustment of positions • Provides for oversight • Accountability which leads to seeking new and innovative ideas.
REDUCE EMPLOYEE TURNOVERLow turnover of staff is a significant factor in maintaining smaller caseloadsIdeas for reducing turnover: • Career ladders/promotional opportunities • Flexible/Alternative work schedules • Over-hires • Staffing for 24 hour service – no on call duty • Intensive Training
REDUCE EMPLOYEE TURNOVERLow turnover of staff is a significant factor in maintaining smaller caseloadsIdeas for reducing turnover: • Well equipped workers • Adequate support staff/Assistants • Labor/Management Meetings • Streamline/Reduce Paperwork
VIGILANCE • Constant monitoring is necessary as regulations, budgets and other trends impact caseloads • Seek new ideas • Never say never
EMPLOYEE INVOLVEMENT • Employee involvement increases morale and buy-in • Employees often have good solutions • Create forums for input such as LMC, quality circles, lunches etc.
What This Means • Creating legislation, taking steps to reduce turnover, involving employees and being vigilant will lead to reduced caseloads. • Increases service to the families and children.
WISH LIST • CWLA standards • Career growth for assistants and support staff. • Reduction of duplicate tasks. • Improving equipment • Hazardous duty recognition • Excellent Resource: www.afscme.org