A Child Protection Conference is a gathering convened between parents and professionals to address a child’s welfare and safety for their future development.
These conferences are typically convened in response to concerns about a child having experienced harm or being at risk. These concerns can arise from various sources, such as educators, healthcare professionals, law enforcement, or the child’s family members. The purpose of these meetings is to draw upon the collective expertise of participants to make well-informed decisions about the child’s well-being.
The role of the Chair of the Child Protection Case Conference is crucial for ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of these meetings. These chairs are experienced social workers who guide discussions, maintain focus on the child’s best interests, and facilitate the meeting. They are usually employed within the Safeguarding and Care Planning Service of a local authority’s Children’s Services department, bringing extensive experience and knowledge to address the complexities of child protection and welfare.
According to Section 47 of the Children Act 1989, a Child Protection Conference may be called when:
- There has been an investigation into concerns regarding harm to a child.
- There is reason to believe that a child is suffering or is likely to suffer significant harm.
If you’ve been invited to a child protection conference, you likely have questions about the process. This article explains what to expect, who will attend, and how a care proceedings solicitor could assist you.
Why is a Child Protection Conference held?
A Child Protection Conference is convened based on concerns raised by children’s social care or other relevant agencies regarding potential harm or risk of harm to a child or children. This decision is typically informed by a thorough evaluation process known as a child and family assessment, which actively involves parents and their children.
This assessment is a crucial component of the child protection framework, aiming to understand the child’s circumstances, family dynamics, and potential risks they may face. It provides a collaborative platform for parents or carers to contribute by sharing their perspectives and insights into their child’s welfare. The collective findings of this assessment guide the decision to convene a Child Protection Conference.
The primary objective of a child protection conference is to address these concerns. It serves as a structured forum where professionals, parents, and carers engage in open discussion to gain a deeper understanding of the child’s situation. Through this process, the aim is to make informed decisions and develop strategies to ensure the child’s safety and future well-being.
What Happens at a Child Protection Conference?
A Child Protection Conference will be facilitated by the Conference Chair, who is a qualified social worker. The chair will review the reports shared during the meeting and address any questions you may have.
At the start of the conference, everyone in attendance will be introduced, so you can identify who is present and understand their roles. Each professional present will then take turns sharing their perspectives and any concerns they have regarding the child.
There will be opportunities for questions from all attendees, including parents. If your child is present, they will also have an opportunity to express their views on the situation.
Following discussions about any concerns or necessary adjustments, the professionals present will collectively decide whether a child protection plan is required. If there is already a plan in place, they will assess whether it should be continued.
What happens if it is determined that your child requires a Protection Plan?
If it is determined that a Child Protection Plan is necessary, it will be documented with the following details:
- Identification of the key worker (typically the social worker)
- A comprehensive list of concerns and reasons for the required changes
- Specific actions that need to be taken to address the concerns
- Identification of your child’s needs and proposed methods to meet them
- Recognition of your needs as a parent and the provision of supportive measures
- An initial timeline for implementing necessary changes
- Clearly defined responsibilities for all involved parties
Following this, you will engage regularly with a smaller core group of professionals to further develop the plan and review the progress made.
Do I Have to Attend the Conference as a Parent?
Typically, parents and carers are encouraged to attend a child protection conference. You have the option to bring an advocate with you, such as a friend, family member, or legal professional. If you plan to have a legal representative accompany you, it’s important to inform the Conference Chair prior to the meeting.
Other attendees at the conference may include:
- Social workers
- Healthcare professionals who have been involved with your child, such as a doctor or health visitor
- Law enforcement representatives
- A teacher from your child’s school
- Any other professionals with pertinent information about your child
If appropriate, your child may also be invited to participate in the meeting to share their views. They can bring an advocate to assist them in expressing their opinions and wishes.
If it is deemed harmful for the child to attend in person, they have the option to convey their thoughts in a letter to be read at the conference.
How is the Initial Child Protection Conference different from a Review Conference?
The Initial Child Protection Conference serves as the starting point where the decision is made regarding whether a child needs a safety plan, marking the first step towards ensuring the child’s well-being.
In contrast, a Review Conference functions as a follow-up meeting to assess the progress of the safety plan and ensure the ongoing safety of the child. The first Review Conference typically occurs around three months after the Initial Child Protection Conference, with subsequent reviews taking place approximately every six months thereafter. Review Conferences continue until it is determined that the child no longer requires the safety plan.
The primary distinction lies in the fact that the initial child protection conference initiates the safety plan, while review conferences oversee its effectiveness and the ongoing safety of the child.
How can a solicitor assist with a child protection conference?
If you have received an invitation to a child protection conference, you may understandably feel anxious and uncertain about the potential outcomes. Our team of care proceedings solicitors specialises in this area of law and can provide tailored legal advice to help you navigate each stage of the process with confidence.
We offer representation at child protection conferences, ensuring that you have the support of a legal expert by your side to advise you throughout the proceedings.
Depending on your financial circumstances, you may be eligible for legal aid from the government. We will assess your eligibility for this support and handle all necessary paperwork on your behalf.
Contact our experienced Care Proceedings team today for initial advice and guidance tailored to your situation.
