• Overarching Principle - Safety/Permanency/Well-Being:  The Department of Children and Families (DCF) is committed to the support and care of all children, including those in need of protection, who require mental health or substance abuse services, and who come to the attention of the juvenile services system.
  
  In this context, DCF asserts that all children have a basic right to grow up in safe and nurturing environments and to live free from abuse and neglect. All children are entitled to enduring relationships that create a sense of family, stability and belonging.
   
• Principle One - Families as Allies:  The integrity of families and each individual family member is respected, and the importance of the attachments between family members is accepted as critical. All families have strengths and the goal is to build on these strengths. Family involvement and self-determination in the planning and service delivery process is essential.
   
• Principle Two – Cultural Competence:  The diversity of all people is recognized and appreciated and children and families are to be understood in the context of their own family rules, traditions, history and culture.
   
• Principle Three – Partnerships:  Children and families are best served when they are part of and supported by their community. The Department is part of this community, works in association with community members, and is committed to its services being localized, accessible and individualized to meet the variety of children and families needs.
   
• Principle Four – Organizational Commitment:  A successful organizational structure promotes effective communication, establishes clear directions, defines roles and responsibilities, values the input and professionalism of staff, creates a supportive, respectful and positive environment, and endorses continuous quality improvement and best practice.
   
• Principle Five – Work Force Development:  The work force is highly qualified, well trained and competent, and is provided with the skills necessary to engage, assess, and intervene to assist children and families achieve safety, permanence and well-being.