Question & AnswerQ&A (DSWD ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 11)
The DSWD is mandated to care for marginalized and disadvantaged sectors of society, set standards, provide consultative services, and monitor compliance for institutions and organizations engaged in social welfare activities, both public and private.
The standards apply to all types of residential care facilities operated and managed by DSWD, Local Government Units (LGUs), and private social work agencies or NGOs providing 24-hour group care as an alternative family care arrangement.
Residential care refers to a service delivery mode that provides 24-hour group living as an alternative family care arrangement to residents whose needs cannot be adequately met by their families.
The standards aim to protect and promote the best interest and welfare of residents, ensure programs contribute to healing and social reintegration, and promote efficiency, effectiveness, and accountability in management and service implementation.
Admission to residential care facilities, especially for children, should be a last resort and have a defined maximum duration of stay to support de-institutionalization.
Residents 15 years old and above, who can take care of themselves, have no chances for adoption/foster care, and those without families or relatives should be prepared for independent or group living.
Accreditation validity periods depend on compliance level: Level 1 (Must indicators) - 3 years; Level 2 (Desired indicators) - 4 years; Level 3 (Exemplary indicators/Center for Excellence) - 5 years.
The categories are MUST indicators (minimum baseline standards), DESIRED indicators (higher standards that improve quality), and EXEMPLARY indicators (highest standards signifying a Center for Excellence).
Legal bases include Republic Act 5416, Executive Order No. 292 (Administrative Code of 1987), and Executive Order No. 15 as amended by Executive Order No. 221, which mandate DSWD to set standards, accredit, and monitor social welfare programs and facilities.
The five focus areas are: 1) Administration and Organization, 2) Program Management, 3) Case Management, 4) Helping Strategies/Interventions, and 5) Physical Structures and Safety.
They manage a manageable number of residents using specific social work methods, innovative strategies based on problem assessments and treatment plans, and document the helping process systematically to guide interventions.
The facility's accreditation may be suspended or cancelled if it does not maintain compliance despite three notices within six months to act on non-compliance issues.
Administrative Orders No. 141, s. 2002 and 01, s. 2004, along with all inconsistent provisions from other issuances, are repealed by this order.
The Order takes effect immediately 30 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or a newspaper of general circulation, whichever comes first.
Facilities must have a clear Vision, Mission, and Goals, a well-defined organizational structure with sufficient trained and competent staff, and policies aligned with international conventions and national laws for effective management and resident care.