Local Authority Responses and Support

There may be occasions where professionals deem it necessary to offer support from or refer families to the Local Authority services.

It is important to note that whatever the reasons for any referral, the priority is to always work with the family on supporting them with with any difficulties and not to 'take children away' which would only ever be a very last resort in very extreme circumstances. 

Early Help

All Local Authorities are required to provide an Early Help offer where, if required, familes can be referred for various levels of support as soon as it is needed to help  families thrive and resolve any challenges they may be facing before they become too difficult to manage. 

Find out more about Early Help here.

What happens if a referral is made to Children's Services?

There may be situations where a referral may need to be made to Children's Services. This is usually when there are still ongoing concerns around the welfare and well-being of a child and previous support or engagement with the family has not improved the situation. There may also be occasions where a disclosure has been made by a child to an adult that warrants an immediate referral if it is deemd the child may be at risk of harm.

Find out more about Local Authority responses following a referral here