CPS, Youth Services Staffing Improves In 2025

Vacancy rates in the state’s child welfare workforce have been lowered significantly since the first of the year, according to a press release from the West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS). 

As of Sept. 1, 2025, the statewide vacancy rate for Child Protective Services (CPS) positions has dropped from 12% to 8.5%. Two years ago that rate was more than 27%.

In January, critical vacancies in CPS were identified across Doddridge, Pleasants, Upshur, Lewis, and Ritchie counties. In response, DoHS launched a series of targeted initiatives that reduced vacancy rates by 30% as of June 30, 2025.  

One effort is the recently launched mentorship program for new CPS workers. The program pairs each new employee with a seasoned worker for one-on-one sessions every two weeks during their first nine months. This helps them acclimate to their roles, provides broader internal support, and improves retention.

To learn more about child welfare programs at DoHS, visit humanservices.wv.gov.