WORCESTER, Mass. - Central Massachusetts social workers are sounding the alarm on a number of conditions including the quality of services being provided to families.

Members of SEIU local 509 gathered for a public protest Friday outside the Department of Children and Families Central Regional Headquarters in Worcester. Union members claim there's escalating burn out, forced overtime and wage theft.

The union also says frontline workers don't have the resources to deliver what they describe as 'life-saving' services.

"They're telling workers, don't bill for overtime until the kids in your car or the client is in your car," said union president Dave Foley. "Now, if they've got an hour to drive to go get that client, it's expected that they're not going to be able to bill for that time and not collect for that time. That those aren't work hours. But that is doing the work for the Commonwealth and they need to be justly compensated for it. It's a violation of our contract. And that's why we're out here today to bring attention to it."

A DCF spokesperson saying in a statement to Spectrum News 1, “We deeply value the contributions of all Department of Children and Families (DCF) employees and recognize their right to voice their concerns. DCF is committed to cultivating a supportive work environment where every employee feels seen and appreciated. We will continue collaborating with the union and explore ways to support our employees while doing this important work.”