The referral process
As you would expect, the local authority (Children’s Social Care) takes all reports of abuse – also known as ‘Referrals’ – seriously. This summarises the procedures that will be followed if Children’s Social Care receive a referral that a child may suffer or has suffered abuse.
Stage 1 - Statutory Assessment
All request for service/referrals will be considered by a Manager in Children’s Services, and a Statutory Single Assessment may be undertaken. It may be necessary to take immediate action to protect the children involved, any concerns raised and further planning would be in full consultation with the parent/carer.
Stage 2 - Strategy Discussion
If it looks like abuse has happened or might happen, the social workers and others, like teachers or the Police, will hold a meeting called a Strategy Discussion to decide whether a Child Protection Enquiry is necessary (see the next stage).
Stage 3 - Child Protection Enquiry
If it looks like abuse has happened or might happen, the social workers and others, like teachers or the Police, will hold a meeting called a Strategy Discussion to decide whether a Child Protection Enquiry is necessary (see the next stage).
Stage 4 - Initial Child Protection Conference
At the end of the Child Protection Enquiry, an Initial Child Protection Conference will be conducted, chaired by an Independent Reviewing Officer. Parents are invited to this meeting unless there are exceptional circumstances why a parent should not attend.
You have rights too…
If parents/carers are unhappy about any aspect of the meeting, they should talk to the chair of the meeting to discuss their views. If parents feel they have not been properly informed or involved, they should seek advice from a Solicitor, Calderdale Citizens Advice Bureau or make a complaint.