8-801. Definitions

In this article and articles 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 of this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:

1. "Child safety services" means a specialized child welfare program that is administered by the department as provided in this chapter and that investigates allegations of and seeks to prevent, intervene in and treat abuse and neglect, to promote the well-being of the child in a permanent home and to coordinate services to strengthen the family.

2. "Child safety worker" or "worker" means a person who has been selected by and trained under the requirements prescribed by the department and who assists in carrying out the provisions of this article.

3. "DCS information":

(a) Includes all information the department gathers during the course of an investigation conducted under this chapter from the time a file is opened and until it is closed.

(b) Does not include information that is contained in child welfare agency licensing records.

4. "In-home intervention" means a program of services provided pursuant to article 14 of this chapter while the child is still in the custody of the parent, guardian or custodian.

5. "Relative" has the same meaning prescribed in section 8-501.