Forward Together and the SAFE Model

A transformative approach to supporting children and families

We are transforming the way we support children and families to ensure every response is grounded in respect, understanding and a commitment to doing what is right for each family.

Beginning July 1, 2026, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) is implementing Forward Together, a new approach that includes the SAFE Model and a reimagined way of engaging with families.

Why we’re making this change

Every year, the DCFS Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline receives more than 200,000 calls from people concerned about the safety and well-being of children. These calls reflect the care and vigilance of our communities.

At the same time, more than 70% of investigations do not result in findings of abuse or neglect.

This tells us something important: Many families are experiencing challenges, but not all require a formal investigation.

Our current approach sometimes leads to unnecessary investigations that could feel intrusive and does not always connect families to the supportive resources they truly need.

DCFS is changing that.

What is Forward Together?

Forward Together is our commitment to building a more responsive, equitable and family-centered system of care.

It means:

• Taking time to understand each family’s unique situation.
• Responding with the right level of support at the right time.
• Reducing unnecessary system involvement.
• Strengthening trust between families and the department.

This approach reflects our core values of being family-focused, acting with integrity, demonstrating respect, empathy and equity to ensure that every child and family have the opportunity to thrive.

What is the SAFE Model?

The Safety Assessment and Family Evaluation (SAFE) Model is a framework that helps guide how we assess safety and make decisions about next steps.

It replaces an older tool that relied heavily on checklists and could lead to inconsistent decisions.

The SAFE Model:

• Focuses on understanding what is happening within a family, not just what is reported.
• Helps staff identify immediate and potential safety concerns.
• Supports consistent, thoughtful decision-making.
• Centers both child safety and family strengths.

Forward Together and the SAFE Model are designed to work hand-in-hand. Forward Together sets the vision for a more thoughtful, family-centered approach, while the SAFE Model provides the structured framework staff use to put that vision into practice. By pairing a clear philosophy with consistent decision-making tools, DCFS can better understand each family’s situation and respond in a way that is both supportive and appropriate.

A new approach: Family Safety Review

As part of Forward Together, every report that requires a response will begin with a Family Safety Review.

This is a more thorough, information-gathering process that:

• Focuses on engaging and partnering with families.
• Encourages open, respectful conversations with families.
• Uses skilled engagement techniques to build trust.
• Looks at the full picture of a family’s needs and strengths.

Rather than starting with a formal investigation, this approach allows us to determine the most appropriate next step.

What happens next?

After the Family Safety Review, one of two things will happen:

1. Connection to support: If there is no evidence of abuse or neglect, families may be connected to community-based services or supports that meet their needs.
2. Formal investigation (when necessary): If there are safety concerns that meet the criteria for abuse or neglect, a formal investigation will move forward, along with appropriate supports and safety planning.

What this means for families

This new approach is designed to:

• Treat families with respect, empathy and dignity.
• Reduce unnecessary investigations.
• Focus on strengths as well as needs.
• Provide support earlier, before challenges escalate.
• Ensure decisions are made using complete and accurate information.

Families will still receive timely responses, and child safety will always remain the top priority.

Our commitment

DCFS is committed to:

•  Keeping children safe.
• Supporting families through challenges.
• Reducing disparities in how families experience the system.
• Making decisions that are fair, consistent and transparent.

Forward Together and the SAFE Model represent a meaningful step toward a system that better serves children, families and communities.