Families with Service Needs

Certain youth behaviors that were once referred to Juvenile Court are no longer under Juvenile Court jurisdiction. Recognizing that punishing youth does not always address the underlying causes of these behaviors, the State of CT directs families to community organizations that can help.

FWSN behaviors are very specific and apply to youth under the age of 18. These behaviors are (1) running away without just cause, (2) beyond control of parent/guardian, (3) engaged in indecent or immoral conduct; (4) and sexual intercourse based on age and age disparity between participants.

Truancy and Defiance of School Rules are also considered FWSN behaviors that were once referred to Juvenile Court and are now handled within the school and community. Here in Westbrook, the schools are resourceful at addressing these behaviors through support available in the school and through referrals to community resources. With parent or guardian permission, Westbrook’s Truancy Board convenes with representatives from the school, Westbrook Youth and Family Services and community organizations to identify other resources that might support the family.

For more information on Truancy and interventions, please see Truancy under the Youth at Risk tab

Support is available

Initially, a police officer may be involved when a FWSN behavior occurs, especially runaways. Initial police assistance for families that need help is encouraged. However, parents/legal guardians should complete and submit the Referral form on their own so that the most accurate and complete information is captured.

There are many resources available to address the wide variety of FWSN cases:

  • Beacon Health Options provides Voluntary Care Management (VCM), Integrated Family Care and Support (IFCS) and Intensive Care Coordination (ICC)
  • Wheeler Clinic (through its DCF contracts)
  • Other local community agencies which specialize in the type of support that benefits the child or family.

Westbrook Youth and Family Services

Westbrook Youth and Family Services is the Town of Westbrook’s youth service bureau. We can help, or help connect families with appropriate community resources when a child exhibits FWSN behaviors.
Parent Guide - English
Parent Guide - Spanish
Parent Guide - Portugese
Referral Form - English
Referral Form - Spanish
Referral Form - Portugese
Beacon Health Options Resources
Beacon Voluntary Care Management Program
MST Providers 2020