What It Means for You and Your Family

Child in Need and Child Protection Plans

A child may be considered “in need” if:
• They are unlikely to achieve a reasonable standard of health or development without support;
• Their health or development is likely to be significantly impaired without services;
• They have a disability.

Child in Need (CIN)

During the assessment, professionals look at your child’s developmental needs, your capacity to meet those needs, your family circumstances, and any additional factors such as domestic abuse or home environment concerns. Where several children live in the home, they may all be included in the assessment.

If support is required, the Local Authority will create a Child in Need plan. It sets out:
• What is working well and what needs to improve
• The support being provided and by which agencies
• What is expected from you and the professionals
• When the plan will be reviewed

The first review takes place within three months and then at least every six months. Support can include parenting advice, early years childcare, respite care, recreational activities, financial help, and access to local family centres.

Child Protection: Conferences and Plans

If the Local Authority has serious concerns that a child may be at risk of significant harm, a Section 47 assessment may take place. This can lead to an Initial Child Protection Conference (ICPC).

What happens at a Child Protection Conference?

You and the professionals involved with your family will meet to discuss concerns, your child’s safety and wellbeing, and whether a Child Protection Plan is needed. A written report is shared with you in advance. Solicitors can attend these meetings with you but are not permitted to speak or advocate on your behalf, they can only attend to support you.

If a Child Protection Plan is implemented, it will outline:

The type of harm professionals are worried about (e.g. neglect, emotional or physical abuse)
The level of risk and actions needed to reduce it
The responsibilities of each professional and the family
How progress will be monitored

Review meetings take place regularly. When risks have reduced and your child is considered safe, the plan can end.

If you’re unhappy with the process or conduct of professionals, you may be able to appeal under local policy or use the Local Authority’s complaints procedure.

CIN, CP

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Child in Need and Child Protection?

CIN is voluntary support for families where a child needs help to maintain healthy development. Child Protection is used when professionals believe a child is at risk of significant harm.

How long does a Child in Need plan usually last?

CIN plans are reviewed every six months, or sooner if circumstances change. The plan remains in place as long as support is needed to help your child achieve a reasonable standard of development.

What happens if I don’t agree with the Child in Need plan?

You can discuss your concerns with the social worker or request a meeting to review the plan. It’s important to communicate openly so the plan reflects what support works best for your family.

Will my child be taken away under a Child in Need plan?

No. CIN is voluntary support. The Local Authority’s goal is to help families safely care for their children at home.

Can I see the Child Protection Plan?

Yes. You are entitled to see the Child Protection Plan and be involved in decisions affecting your child’s safety and wellbeing.

What support can I receive during a Child Protection Plan?

You may be offered parenting courses, counselling, family support services, or other resources to reduce risk and improve your child’s safety.

Do I have to attend every Child Protection review?

It’s strongly recommended that parents attend reviews. If you cannot attend, you should let the social worker know and can submit your views in writing.

Who can I contact if I feel unsupported during any stage?

You can ask for an Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) or contact your solicitor. Local advocacy services and family support organisations can also help.

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If you are facing a Child in Need assessment or the Local Authority are recommending a Child Protection Plan, getting early legal advice can make a real difference.

Contact Ridley & Hall for a free, no-obligation consultation. Legal aid is available.

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