In a poignant gathering at the Vermont Senate Judiciary meeting, family services workers (FSWs) voiced their urgent concerns about the overwhelming challenges they face in their daily roles. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as workers shared harrowing accounts of being grossly understaffed, grappling with high turnover rates, and managing caseloads that often exceed their capacity.

One worker described the intense demands of their job, stating, “We are being hit, bitten, having food thrown at us,” while caring for youth with disabilities. This stark reality highlights the physical and emotional toll on FSWs, who often find themselves performing tasks outside their professional scope, leading to burnout and a high attrition rate. “We are sacrificing time with our own families and often sacrificing our own mental health,” another worker lamented, emphasizing the personal sacrifices made to meet the needs of families in crisis.

The testimonies painted a grim picture of the current state of family services in Vermont. Workers reported caseloads of 20 to 25 cases, which they deemed unmanageable and unsafe. “I feel that I'm triaging cases daily,” one FSW explained, underscoring the lack of time to provide meaningful social work. The overwhelming workload has led to missed deadlines and inadequate support for families, raising alarms about the safety and well-being of both staff and the children they serve.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the systemic issues plaguing the department are not new. A veteran worker with over two decades of experience noted, “The turnover has been ridiculous,” attributing it to an unsustainable work environment. The call for change resonated throughout the room, with workers pleading for more resources and support to ensure they can effectively serve their communities.

The urgency of their message was palpable: without immediate action to address staffing shortages and caseload demands, the cycle of struggle will continue, potentially jeopardizing the safety of vulnerable children. “Why are FSWs leaving? Because the caseloads are too high,” one worker stated, encapsulating the collective frustration and desperation for reform.

As the meeting drew to a close, the workers left with a sense of hope that their voices would be heard, urging lawmakers to recognize the changing needs of families and the critical importance of supporting those on the front lines of child welfare. The future of Vermont’s family services hangs in the balance, and the time for change is now.