What does Child in Need mean?

The Family Rights Group define a ‘Child in Need’ as a child or young person who is thought to need extra support or services to help them to maintain ‘a reasonable standard of health or development.’ All disabled children are classed as children in need.

What is a Child in Need plan?

Not all Children in Need require a plan – your family may not need one.

If a Child in Need plan is suggested by your social worker, you and your child can choose whether you want the plan, as it is a voluntary arrangement.

If you decide it is the best way forwards, a social worker will work with you to identify support that might be appropriate for you and help smooth out access to that support. They will write a plan with you and your child (where appropriate).

What does a Child in Need plan set out?

A Child in Need plan sets out:

• The child’s health or developmental needs
• What help is needed and what will be provided (for example help with childcare, essential equipment)
• Who will do each action agreed, along with a timescale
• What difference the help is expected to make
• When the plan will be looked at again to check it is helping
• What will happen if the plan isn’t working.

The plan should show your whole family’s strengths as well as areas for support.

How long will a Child in Need plan be in place?

This can vary depending on the need, but it is usually fairly short term – unlikely to be over six months.

If your child’s situation improves, then the plan will end, but the support may well continue. If the situation does not improve, then a decision will need to be made about the next steps. A Child in Need plan is not intended to be long-term.

What if I decide I do not agree with some of the plan?

If you feel that the support in the plan is not right for you or your child, the social worker will work with you to find alternatives if possible.

If you decide to withdraw from the plan, the social worker will need to consider whether there are still significant safety concerns for the child. If they think that this is the case, the social worker will meet other professionals to consider the need for a Child Protection enquiry (known as a strategy meeting).

How does my child contact the social worker?

This depends on their age and needs. However, we recommend that children use the confidential online app called ‘Mind of My Own’ in order to share their views with their workers. The social worker can show you and your child how this works.

What records will be kept on me and my child?

So that all professionals are on the same page, we will ask you to sign an information-sharing agreement. We will record our involvement and decision-making, and information which relates specifically to the safety of the child. The records will be for the purpose of working together as best as possible and avoiding the need for you to repeat your story. You can ask to see the records that are being written.

Will a Child in Need plan make me look like a bad parent?

Not at all! Everyone has struggles in life from time to time and children have a variety of needs that are not always met adequately in today’s society. Social workers are there to support you and see if there is any means possible to help your child and family to thrive despite challenging circumstances. They are there to understand and work alongside you and your child.