Child Protection Ombuds
About us
What we do
- We listen to your concerns about DCFS.
- We answer your questions about the child welfare system.
- We conduct independent reviews and investigations to ensure a child’s case is handled according to DCFS practice guidelines and Utah law.
- We determine the best way to resolve concerns, whether that be by explaining DCFS policies and guidelines, working directly with DCFS, or opening an investigation.
- We want to make lasting change by identifying trends in the child welfare system and making recommendations to have a positive impact on children and families.
What we can't do
- Investigate individuals and actions outside of DCFS, including court rulings, judges, legal staff, law enforcement agencies, or service providers.
- Investigate personnel issues; we will defer them to DCFS administration.
- Give legal advice.
- Share confidential and protected information about a case or child.
Contact us
Sofia Latham
Utah’s Child Protection Ombuds
Danelle England
Assistant Child Protection Ombuds
801-538-4589 (TTY: Utah Relay 7-1-1)
[email protected]
Department of Health and Human Services
Child Protection Ombuds
195 N 1950 W
Salt Lake City, UT 84116
Complaint process
What happens when a complaint is submitted?
- Preliminary intake: Our ombuds will determine if we can provide assistance or will make a referral to the appropriate agency.
- After a case is accepted, we will determine what action will be taken, which can include any of the following:
- Mediate concerns with DCFS and the complainant to get them resolved.
- Open a review to ensure DCFS policies and guidelines were followed.
- Initiate a formal investigation.
- Decline taking further action as the complaint doesn’t meet our statutory criteria, can be resolved by another remedy, or another reason.
- CPO will keep you updated and informed throughout the process.
How to file a complaint
You may file a written, oral or electronic complaint with the Utah Department of Health and Human Services Office of Ombuds. The events leading up to the complaint must have occurred within the last three months. You will be contacted by the Office of Ombuds within three (3) business days of submitting your complaint. Your information will remain confidential.
801-538-4589 (TTY: Utah Relay 7-1-1)
Monday – Friday
8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Department of Health and Human Services
Child Protection Ombuds
195 N 1950 W
Salt Lake City, UT 84116
Tips for making a complaint
- Be Timely
- Check to make sure you are submitting your concern to the right agency
- Provide the details of your concern - share the facts
- Be clear and specific
- State what you want as the result
- Be polite
- Be patient