In response to the proposed change in APS guidance, I contest the change regarding section H, reporting to the alleged perpetrator. I have been an APS worker for 8 years. It concerns me how this change would affect the safety and well-being of my clients. I spend a great deal of time building a relationship with the client who usually lives with the alleged perpetrator. My client does not want me to discuss the allegation with the alleged perpetrator; therefore I respect the right of my adult client. I then spend my time working with the alleged perpetrator and client to get services in place. If I send a letter to the alleged perpetrator all the services in the home will be stopped and then senior will be isolated and therefore more vulnerable for additional abuse/neglect. A second concern I have is that the majority of my cases are self-neglect cases. This policy would require the APS worker to send a letter to the client/victim/customer saying they are self-neglecting.

APS is not CPS; APS workers do not have the authority to remove vulnerable adults. I feel this policy would put vulnerable adults at risk of additional abuse/neglect.