Page reportSummary
Page Layout
Display issue details:
The line numbers refer to lines in the original source. Any with a line number of '0' are implicit tags added by Total Validator:
1 <!doctype html>
2 <html lang="en">
3 <head>
4 <meta charset="utf-8">
12 
E916 [WCAG21 1.4.4 (AA)] Do not use 'viewport' settings which prevent the user from zooming in:
Using 'user-scalable=no' or 'maximum-scale' with a value less than 2.0 may prevent people with sight difficulties from being able to 'zoom in' to pages to read them. See Understanding 1.4.4. <meta name='viewport' content='width=device-width, initial-scale=1, maximum-scale=1'>
12 <title>
12 Ceasing to Look After a Child
12 </title>
13 <link href='css/css.php' rel='stylesheet' type='text/css' id="main_style"/>
14 <link rel='shortcut icon' href='images/favicon.ico' type='image/x-icon'/>
16 <link rel="apple-touch-icon" href="images/apple-touch-icon-57x57-precomposed.png" />
17 <link rel="apple-touch-icon" sizes="72x72" href="images/apple-touch-icon-72x72-precomposed.png" />
18 <link rel="apple-touch-icon" sizes="114x114" href="images/apple-touch-icon-114x114-precomposed.png" />
20 <meta name="application-name" content="Ceasing to Look After a Child" />
21 <meta name="msapplication-TileColor" content="#301880" />
22 <meta name="msapplication-square70x70logo" content="images/smalltile.png" />
23 <meta name="msapplication-square150x150logo" content="images/mediumtile.png" />
24 <meta name="msapplication-wide310x150logo" content="images/widetile.png" />
25 <meta name="msapplication-square310x310logo" content="images/largetile.png" />
29 <link href='normal.css' id='switch_style' rel='stylesheet' type='text/css'>
32 <link rel='stylesheet' media='(max-width: 1100px)' href='css/colours_mobile.css' />
36 <link href='css/print.css' rel='stylesheet' type='text/css' media='print'>
37 <link href='css/print_colours.css' rel='stylesheet' type='text/css' media='print'>
39 <script src="scripts/print.js">
39 </script>
40 <script src="scripts/jquery-1.6.4.min.js">
40 </script>
41 <script src="scripts/jquery-dateFormat.min.js">
41 </script>
42 <script src="scripts/js.cookie.js">
42 </script>
43 <script type="text/javascript" src="scripts/highlight.js">
43 </script>
44 <script src='https://www.google.com/recaptcha/api.js'>
44 </script>
45 <script type="text/javascript" src="scripts/jquery.js">
45 </script>
46 <script type="text/javascript" src="scripts/pageOrganizer.js">
46 </script>
47 <script>
54 </script>
116 <style>
117 #new_print {
118 display:block;
119 }
120 #old_print {
121 display:none;
122 }
123 </style>
131 <style>
132 ol {
133 counter-reset: item;
134 z-index:-1;
135 }
136 ol li.sub_list {
137 display: block;
138 position: relative;
139 }
140 ol li.sub_list:before {
141 content: counters(item, ".")".";
142 counter-increment: item;
143 position: absolute;
144 margin-right: 100%;
145 right: 3px;
146 }
147 ol li.remove_bullet:before {
148 P908 [WCAG21 1.3.1 (A)] Do not insert content using CSS:
Content inserted using CSS may not appear when CSS is turned off, or the user is using their own accessible style sheet. See WCAG 2.1 Failure F87. content:"\ \ \ ";
149 display:none;
150 }
151 </style>
155 <style>
156 .remove_bullet {
157 list-style:none;
158 }
159 </style>
183 </head>
184 <body onLoad="if (document.getElementById('zoom_searchbox'))
{document.getElementById('zoom_searchbox').focus();}">
186 <div id="skip">
186 <a href="#main_content" class="section_links">
186 Skip navigation to sections
186 </a>
186 </div>
187 <div id="cookie_bar">
187 We use cookies to track usage and preferences.
187 <a href="https://www.trixonline.co.uk/privacy-policy#cookies">
187 View our Cookie Policy
187 </a>
187 <div id="cookie_agree">
187 I Accept
187 </div>
187 </div>
190 <div id="head_bar">
192 <header>
193 <div id="grey_bar">
194 <div id="logo_holder">
195 <img src="images/client_logo.png" height="85" alt="Bexley Logo"/>
196 </div>
196 </div>
198 <div id="title">
199 <h1>
199 Bexley
199 <span id="h1_sub">
199 Children's Services Procedures Manual
199 </span>
199 </h1>
201 </div>
205 <div id="access_holder">
205 <div id="access_text_hold" onclick="location.href='accessibility.html';">
205 <a href="accessibility.html">
205 Accessibility
205 </a>
205 </div>
205 </div>
206 </header>
207 </div>
208 <nav>
210 <div id="sticky_navigation_wrapper">
211 <div id="sticky_navigation">
212 <div id="demo_container">
213 <div id="menu_toggle">
213 <img src="images/menu_white.png" id="drop_menu_button" height="20" alt="Menu toggle for
Mobile"/>
214 </div>
216 <div id="menu_items">
217 <ul>
218 <li>
218 <a href="index.html">
218 Home
218 </a>
218 </li>
219 <li>
219 <a href="contents.html">
219 Contents
219 </a>
219 </li>
220 <li class="dropdownmenu" id="doubletap1">
221 E958 [WCAG21 4.1.2 (A)] The 'aria-haspopup' attribute is not allowed in this context:
The ARIA specification only allows certain 'aria-...' attributes to be used with certain roles. See ARIA 1.2. <a class="toplink" href="menu.html" aria-haspopup="true">
221 Resources
221 <b>
221 ▾
221 </b>
221 </a>
222 <ul id="port_drop1" aria-label="submenu">
223 <li>
223 <a href="local_resources.html" tabindex="-1">
223 Policy Update
223 </a>
223 </li>
224 <li>
224 <a href="http://trixresources.proceduresonline.com/nat_key/index.htm" target="_blank"
tabindex="-1">
224 Glossary
224 </a>
224 </li>
225 <li>
225 <a href="http://trixresources.proceduresonline.com/nat_cont/index.htm"
target="_blank" tabindex="-1">
225 Contacts
225 </a>
225 </li>
226 </ul>
227 </li>
228 <li>
228 <a href="using_this_manual.html">
228 Using this Manual
228 </a>
228 </li>
229 <li>
229 <a href="http://www.londoncp.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
229 London Child Protection Procedures
229 </a>
229 </li>
231 </ul>
232 </div>
236 <div id="search">
236 <div id="search_contents">
237 E910 [WCAG21 1.4.4 (AA)] Use relative rather than absolute units:
Using relative units helps the page to be rendered correctly at different resolutions and allows people with sight difficulties to 'zoom in' to pages to read them. See Understanding 1.4.4. <form method="get" action="search_site.php" style="font-size:10px;">
239 <div id="input_holder">
241 W889 [WCAG21 4.1.2 (A)] Avoid using accessible names created from fallback attributes:
An accessible name generated from 'title', 'placeholder' or default values for <input> buttons, typically yields a low quality accessible name. Instead use the recommended way of setting the accessible name for this element. See Avoid Fallback, and Accessible Name Computation. <input type="text" name="zoom_query" placeholder="Search Manual" spellcheck="true" title="search"
class="search_bar">
242 </div>
243 <div id="mag_holder">
244 <input class="imagelink" type="image" src="images/mag_white.png" id="mag_glass"
height="25" alt="Search" title="Search">
246 </div>
246 </form>
246 </div>
246 </div>
248 </div>
251 </div>
253 </div>
258 </nav>
259 <div id="main_content" tabindex="-1">
260 <main>
263 <div id="print_watermark">
263 This document is only valid 72 hours after printing
263 <script>
263 </script>
263 . For the latest version please visit
263 <noscript>
263 the online manual.
263 </noscript>
263 <script>
263 </script>
263 </div>
265 <div id="chapter_title">
268 <div id="print_holder">
272 <div id="new_print">
272 <a onClick="window.print();" tabindex="0" class="imagelink" href="#">
272 <img id="print_img" src="images/print_black.png" height="30" alt="Click here to print"/>
272 </a>
272 </div>
276 <div id="old_print">
276 <form id="printMe" name="printMe">
276 <input class="imagelink" name="printMe" type="image" onclick="printSpecial()"
id="print_img_ie" src="images/print_black.png" height="30" width="33" alt="Print this
page" title="Print Button">
276 </form>
276 </div>
279 </div>
282 <h2>
282 Ceasing to Look After a Child
282 </h2>
284 </div>
287 <div id="scope_box">
288 <h3>
288 SCOPE OF THIS CHAPTER
288 </h3>
289 <p>
289 This chapter reflects the statutory guidance 'Ceasing to look after a child' in '
289 <a
href="https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/441643/Children_Ac
t_Guidance_2015.pdf#page=125" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
289 Care Planning, Placement and Case Review Regulations (2015)
289 </a>
289 ' as amended by the 'Care Planning and Fostering (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2015' and
The Children and Social Work Act 2017, together with
289 <a href="http://www.workingtogetheronline.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
289 Working Together to Safeguard Children
289 </a>
289 .
289 </p>
290 <p>
290 The Local Authority has a duty to ensure that when children have been Accommodated under Section
20 (Children Act 1989) and are discharged from, or leave care, that the discharge is in their best
interests and that they will be safeguarded and their welfare will be promoted. Where a child has
been Accommodated for 20 days or more, the decision should be made by a Nominated Officer, or
Director of Children's Services if the child/young person is 16/17 yrs and has been Accommodated
under Section 20, before discharge.
290 </p>
291 <h3>
291 RELEVANT CHAPTER
291 </h3>
292 <p>
292 <a href="files/leaving_care_policy.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
292 Policy to Promote the Welfare of Young Adults Leaving Care
292 </a>
292 </p>
293 <h3>
293 RELATED GUIDANCE
293 </h3>
294 <p>
294 <a
href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/children-act-1989-care-planning-placement-and-cas
e-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
294 The Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations - Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case
Review
294 </a>
294 </p>
295 <p>
295 <a href="http://www.workingtogetheronline.co.uk/chapters/chapter_one.html" target="_blank"
rel="noopener">
295 Working Together to Safeguard Children, Assessing need and providing help
295 </a>
295 </p>
296 <h3>
296 AMENDMENT
296 </h3>
297 <p>
297 This chapter was updated in April 2019 in line with the Children and Social Work Act 2017 and
revised statutory guidance.
297 </p>
298 <p>
298 These changes relate to the status of 'previously Looked After Children'. A previously Looked
After Child is one who is no longer looked after in England and Wales because they are the subject
of an Adoption, Special Guardianship or Child Arrangements Order which includes arrangements
relating to with whom the child is to live, or when the child is to live with any person, or has
been adopted from 'state care' outside England and Wales.
298 </p>
299 <p>
299 Previously Looked After Children are entitled to support from their school through the Designated
Teacher (see
299 <a href="#move_permanency">
299 Section 2.5, Children Who Move into Permanency
299 </a>
299 ).
299 </p>
300 </div>
301 <div id="sections">
303 <h3 id="sections_list">
303 Contents
303 </h3>
304 <ol>
305 <li>
305 <a href="#context">
305 Context
305 </a>
305 </li>
306 <li>
306 <a href="#ch_acc_under_s20">
306 Children Accommodated under Section 20
306 </a>
306 </li>
307 <li>
307 <a href="#ch_eligible">
307 Children Who are 'Eligible Children' – Transition into Adulthood
307 </a>
307 </li>
308 <li>
308 <a href="#ch_la_short_brks">
308 Children who are Looked After for Short Periods (Fewer than 20 days) Including Short Term
Breaks
308 </a>
308 </li>
309 <li>
309 <a href="#administration">
309 Administration / Process Issues
309 </a>
309 </li>
310 <li class="remove_bullet">
310 <a href="http://www.workingtogetheronline.co.uk/chapters/chapter_one.html#flow_six"
target="_blank" rel="noopener">
310 Appendix 1: Working Together to Safeguard Children, Flowchart 6: Children returning home from
care to their families
310 </a>
310 </li>
311 </ol>
312 <h3 id="context">
312 1. Context
312 </h3>
313 <p>
313 Children become Accommodated through Section 20 for many different reasons and are some of the
most vulnerable children. Section 20 Accommodation can:
313 </p>
314 <ul>
315 <li>
315 Offer children and families short term support as a result of disability (short term break);
315 </li>
316 <li>
316 Support a family in crisis, for example, as a result of health issues of the carer and where no
other family or friend is available;
316 </li>
317 <li>
317 Be the first stage for a Relinquished Child – particularly a child under 6 weeks of age;
317 </li>
318 <li>
318 Be a means of safeguarding a child as a result of Child Protection Enquiries, enabling an
assessment of risk and needs prior to more formal planning;
318 </li>
319 <li>
319 Ensure appropriate care to a child who presents as 'abandoned';
319 </li>
320 <li>
320 Be a way of managing a child where there are concerns of Significant Harm as a result of
appearing to be 'beyond parental control';
320 </li>
321 <li>
321 Offer the level of support and care required to an unaccompanied young person from abroad. (See
321 <a href="p_uasc.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
321 Unaccompanied Migrant Children and Child Victims of Trafficking and Modern Slavery Procedure
321 </a>
321 ).
321 </li>
322 </ul>
323 <p>
323 When a child is Accommodated, (and it is not part of a planned
323 <a href="files/short_breaks_policy.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
323 Short Break
323 </a>
323 ), timescales should be established at the outset for the length of time the Accommodation is
considered to be required, together with a plan for the child returning home.
323 </p>
324 <p>
324 The first Looked After Review should take place within 20 days and will be key to evaluating the
risk, or likelihood of risk, of any Significant Harm; the needs of the child; further detailed
multi-agency work required to support to the child and family, together with the timescales for
these.
324 </p>
325 <p>
325 There can sometimes be concern about delay because of issues in working with either the parent or
child. Equally, a parent or carer may request that the child be returned to their care ahead of
the Care Plan, or where the concerns still exist. (See
325 <a href="#circumstances">
325 Section 2.3. Circumstances Around Ceasing to Look After a Child
325 </a>
325 ).
325 </p>
326 <h3 id="ch_acc_under_s20">
326 2. Children Accommodated under Section 20
326 </h3>
327 <p>
327 Where a child has been Accommodated for 20 working days or more, the local authority must
carefully consider a request for the child to be discharged from care to ensure they remain safe
and that their welfare continues to be promoted.
327 </p>
328 <p>
328 Ceasing to Look After a child will normally be part of the Care Plan that will fully consider
these issues.
328 </p>
329 <h4 id="assessment">
329 2.1 Assessment
329 </h4>
330 <p>
330 As a result of Accommodating the child, in most cases there will already be an Assessment and a
range of multi-agency information about the child and the family which will include an
understanding of the child and family's needs, wishes and wants, together with an appreciation of
their respective abilities to work with support services in a positive and constructive way.
330 </p>
331 <p>
331 Where the plan is for a child to return to the care of their family when they cease to be
looked-after, there should be a robust planning and decision-making process to ensure the decision
is in the best interests of the child and will safeguard and promote their welfare.
331 </p>
332 <p>
332 In making the decision to cease looking after a child, the authority must assess:
332 </p>
333 <ul>
334 <li>
334 The suitability of the child's proposed accommodation and maintenance when they cease to be
looked-after; and
334 </li>
335 <li>
335 What services and support the child might need and who they might contact for support;
335 </li>
336 <li>
336 Where the child is returning home, what services and support the parent might need and who they
might contact for support;
336 </li>
337 <li>
337 The local authority must also ascertain the child's wishes and feelings about the proposed plan
for their care (having regard to their age and understanding), and consider them;
337 </li>
338 <li>
338 Consideration must also be given to the wider context of the family and environmental factors.
338 </li>
339 </ul>
340 <h4 id="dec_make">
340 2.2 Decision Making
340 </h4>
341 <p>
341 Where a child has been Looked After for 20 working days or more, the decision to cease looking
after the child should not be put into effect until it has been endorsed by the Permanence Panel
and approved by the Nominated Officer.
341 </p>
342 <p>
342 Where the child/young person is 16/17 years and has been Accommodated under Section 20, discharge
from care should not take place until the decision has been approved by the Director of
Children's Services. (See
342 <a href="#ch_eligible">
342 Section 3, Children Who are 'Eligible Children' – Transition into Adulthood
342 </a>
342 ).
342 </p>
343 <p>
343 In making the decision, the Nominated Officer, or where relevant, the Director of Children's
Services must be satisfied that:
343 </p>
344 <ul>
345 <li>
345 The young person's wishes have been ascertained and considered;
345 </li>
346 <li>
346 The decision to cease to look after the child will safeguard and promote their welfare;
346 </li>
347 <li>
347 The support that the child and parent receive via the Children's Services Department and partner
agencies will be effective in supporting the child being safeguarded and promote the child's
well being and best interests;
347 </li>
348 <li>
348 The Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO) has been informed.
348 </li>
349 </ul>
350 <h4 id="circumstances">
350 2.3 Circumstances Around Ceasing to Look After a Child
350 </h4>
351 <p>
351 Circumstances around ceasing, or discharging, a child from being Looked After will vary as much as
the original reasons for Accommodating the child, but the discharge of the child from being Looked
After should always be undertaken in a timely and planned way that reflects the needs and best
interests of the child.
351 </p>
352 <p>
352 A prompt return to their parent or carer will invariably be appropriate and welcomed, especially
if the return is part of the child's Care Plan and made possible because of the assessment that
has already been undertaken, together with the ongoing involvement of the practitioner.
352 </p>
353 <p>
353 Where a parent or carer requests the child be returned to their care outside of the Care Plan (if
one has been established), the parent or carer should be asked to undertake the return in a
planned or negotiated way that reflects the needs and best interests of the child, (e.g. contact
arrangements to assist the return; individual counselling, etc), and to ensure appropriate support
becomes available to them or the child. (
353 <span class="bold">
353 Note
353 </span>
353 : a lack of resources should not be a reason for delaying the child returning home).
353 </p>
354 <p>
354 However, when the local authority receives a request for the child to return home immediately,
(under
354 <a href="http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1989/41/section/20" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
354 Section 20(8)
354 </a>
354 ) this must be responded to; any delay in so doing may bring severe criticism, and possible
financial penalty, from a court.
354 </p>
355 Nevertheless, where a return to a parent/carer cannot be planned and also raises concern, (either
because of the circumstances surrounding the reasons for Accommodation in the first place or because
it does not take into account the safeguarding and the welfare of the child), in these
circumstances:
356 <ul>
357 <li>
357 Careful consideration should be given as to whether the request puts the child at risk of
immediate Significant Harm. If this is the case, then the procedure for seeking an Emergency
Protection Order (or, where appropriate, Police Protection) should be invoked;
357 </li>
358 <li>
358 The Nominated Manager's view should be sought;
358 </li>
359 <li>
359 Where a review has been undertaken, the IRO's opinion should be sought;
359 </li>
360 <li>
360 A Working Agreement with the parent or carer should be sought;
360 </li>
361 <li>
361 Consider whether an urgent request and commissioning of a resource(s) or service for the child
or parent /carer support should be sought e.g. CAF/Early Help, 'Relate' or Drug/alcohol advisory
service etc;
361 </li>
362 <li>
362 Other partner agencies, such as Schools, Education Department and Health should be advised of
the change of circumstances;
362 </li>
363 <li>
363 A Child in Need Planning Meeting should be promptly arranged.
363 </li>
364 </ul>
365 <p>
365 Consideration may also be given as to whether the parent / carer's actions require the convening
of an Initial or, (if the child is already subject to a Child Protection Plan), a Review Child
Protection Conference (if the Child Protection Plan does not give such guidance).
365 </p>
366 <h4>
366 2.4 Planning
366 </h4>
367 <p>
367 Where a child who is not already considered to be a Child In Need but ceases to be Looked After,
the child will become a Child In Need, (see
367 <a href="p_cin_plans_rev.html">
367 Child in Need of Our Support and Protection Procedure
367 </a>
367 ).
367 </p>
368 <p>
368 A Child In Need meeting should be convened wherever possible and appropriate, with relevant
agencies, and a Plan drawn up which will promote the safeguarding, welfare and best interests of
the child, with the objective of ensuring that the return to the parent or carer is successful.
368 </p>
369 <p>
369 The Plan should:
369 </p>
370 <ul>
371 <li>
371 Take in to account the child's needs;
371 </li>
372 <li>
372 Take into account the child's views;
372 </li>
373 <li>
373 The parents' capacity to meet the needs of the child;
373 </li>
374 <li>
374 The existing family and support network;
374 </li>
375 <li>
375 The environmental/community factors – both positive and negative;
375 </li>
376 <li>
376 Acknowledge the child's changed legal status;
376 </li>
377 <li>
377 Establish other agencies roles and responsibilities with respect to the Plan.
377 </li>
378 </ul>
379 <p>
379 The Child in Need Plan should be subject to Review (see
379 <a href="p_cin_plans_rev.html#reviews_cin_plans">
379 Child In Need Plans and Reviews Procedure, Reviews of Child in Need Plans
379 </a>
379 ) to ensure the Plan remains relevant, appropriate and required or whether it should be 'stepped
down' to a CAF Plan.
379 </p>
380 <h4 id="move_permanency">
380 2.5 Children Who Move into Permanency
380 </h4>
381 <p>
381 Some children will cease to be looked after under Section 20 but move into other permanent family
placements through a Child Arrangements Order, Special Guardianship Order or Adoption. These
Children are entitled to support in their school or early years setting through the school's
Designated Teacher who must have a plan that promotes and monitors their educational attainment.
381 </p>
382 <h3 id="ch_eligible">
382 3. Children Who are 'Eligible Children' – Transition into Adulthood
382 </h3>
383 <p>
383 See also
383 <a href="files/leaving_care_policy.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
383 Policy to Promote the Welfare of Young Adults Leaving Care
383 </a>
383 .
383 </p>
384 <p>
384 An Eligible Young Person is someone who is:
384 </p>
385 <ul>
386 <li>
386 Aged 16 or 17 years and has been Looked After for a period, or periods, totalling 13 weeks which
started after their 14th birthday; (this does not include a series of pre-planned short-term
placements (of up to 4 weeks) where the child has returned to a parent or person with Parental
Responsibility;
386 </li>
387 <li>
387 Ended after they reached the age of 16 years.
387 </li>
388 </ul>
389 <p>
389 Eligible Children are entitled to the same level of support as every other Looked After Child,
during this important part of their development and transition (see
389 <a href="files/leaving_care_policy.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
389 Policy to Promote the Welfare of Young Adults Leaving Care
389 </a>
389 ).
389 </p>
390 <p>
390 In relation to an Eligible child, from their 16th birthday, the local authority must:
390 </p>
391 <ul>
392 <li>
392 Carry out an assessment of needs with a view to determining what advice, assistance and support
it would be appropriate to provide while looking after them and after it ceases to look after
them;
392 </li>
393 <li>
393 Prepare a Pathway Plan and review it regularly;
393 </li>
394 <li>
394 Where the child is still being Looked After, arrange a Personal Adviser.
394 </li>
395 </ul>
396 <p>
396 (See
396 <a href="files/leaving_care_policy.pdf#page=9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
396 Policy to Promote the Welfare of Young Adults Leaving Care, Role of the Personal Advisor
396 </a>
396 ).
396 </p>
397 <h4>
397 3.1 Assessment of Need
397 </h4>
398 <p>
398 The Assessment underpins the young person's current Care Plan as the starting point for developing
the Pathway Plan. The Assessment should take place not more than 3 months after the young
person's 16th birthday or after they become eligible, if later than 16 yrs. It should not require
significant additional work if the young person is settled with an up to date Care Plan.
398 </p>
399 <p>
399 This assessment of needs must take into account the following:
399 </p>
400 <ul>
401 <li>
401 The wishes and feelings of the young person;
401 </li>
402 <li>
402 Their parents or other person with Parental Responsibility;
402 </li>
403 <li>
403 The young person's health (including their physical, emotional and mental health) and
development;
403 </li>
404 <li>
404 The young person's continuing need for education, training or employment;
404 </li>
405 <li>
405 The support that will be offered by their parents, friends and that all other Connected Persons
will be able to give;
405 </li>
406 <li>
406 The financial resources available to the young person, together with an assessment of their
financial capability to manage their own finances;
406 </li>
407 <li>
407 The extent to which the young person possesses the practical and other skills they will need to
manage more independent living;
407 </li>
408 <li>
408 The young person's need for continuing care, support and accommodation;
408 </li>
409 <li>
409 The view of the educational establishment the young person attends and, if they have an
Education, Health and Care Plan, the views of the authority that maintains the Care Plan (if
different);
409 </li>
410 <li>
410 The views of the IRO;
410 </li>
411 <li>
411 The views of the Personal Adviser;
411 </li>
412 <li>
412 The views of any person providing health care to the young person;
412 </li>
413 <li>
413 The views any other person the local authority or young person feel is relevant.
413 </li>
414 </ul>
415 <p>
415 Where the young person is seeking to discharge themselves from care and live independently, the
social worker in addition should evaluate and consider, (including the information from above),
the degree to which the young person is able to live independently and the need for their
continuing need for support and accommodation.
415 </p>
416 <h4>
416 3.2 Planning
416 </h4>
417 <p>
417 Following the completion of the assessment of need, the social worker should complete the Pathway
Plan as soon as possible. The Pathway Plan should detail: which services will be provided; who
will provide these services; what actions the social worker themselves need to undertake to secure
such support; details of the support and involvement from family and other Connected Persons;
timescales with regard to all of these. It is more than a 'statement of intent, it is a living
document'.
417 </p>
418 <p>
418 The Pathway Plan must include what outcomes are to be achieved be with regard to the young person.
418 </p>
419 <p>
419 The Pathway Plan must specify the name of the Personal Adviser and detail the arrangements for
visiting the young person. It should cover:
419 </p>
420 <ul>
421 <li>
421 Details of the young person's accommodation when they cease to be Looked After, and how this
will be suitable in view of their assessed needs;
421 </li>
422 <li>
422 The plans and arrangements for the young person's continuing education and training;
422 </li>
423 <li>
423 What support the young person will require to enable them to develop and sustain appropriate
family and social relationships;
423 </li>
424 <li>
424 How the young person will be supported to build and develop their independent living skills;
424 </li>
425 <li>
425 The financial support to be provided to enable the young person to meet accommodation and
personal living costs;
425 </li>
426 <li>
426 How the authority will assist the young person in obtaining employment or other purposeful
activity when they cease to be looked after, taking into account their aspirations, skills and
educational potential;
426 </li>
427 <li>
427 The young person's financial capabilities and money management capacity, along with strategies
to develop skills in this area;
427 </li>
428 <li>
428 How the young person's physical, emotional and mental health needs will be met.
428 </li>
429 </ul>
430 <p>
430 The Pathway Plan should identify a Contingency Plan, (should the Pathway Plan not effectively meet
the young person's needs).
430 </p>
431 <p>
431 The Pathway Plan must be reviewed:
431 </p>
432 <ul>
433 <li>
433 When the young person requests; or
433 </li>
434 <li>
434 If the Personal Adviser considers it necessary; or
434 </li>
435 <li>
435 At least once every 6 months.
435 </li>
436 </ul>
437 <p>
437 The Plan should be adjusted accordingly with the young person's achievements, needs and maturity.
437 </p>
438 <h4>
438 3.3 Decision Making
438 </h4>
439 <p>
439 For young people with Eligible status, discharge from care should not take place until the
Director of Children's Services has approved it.
439 </p>
440 In making the decision, the Director of Children's Services must be satisfied that:
441 <ul>
442 <li>
442 The young person's wishes and feelings have been ascertained and given due consideration;
442 </li>
443 <li>
443 The decision to cease to look after a child will safeguard and promote their welfare;
443 </li>
444 <li>
444 The support that the child and parent receive via the Children's Services Department and partner
agencies, will be effective in supporting the child being safeguarded and promote the child's
well being and best interests;
444 </li>
445 <li>
445 The IRO has been informed;
445 </li>
446 <li>
446 That as an Eligible child, there is an assessment of need (covering all the relevant areas); a
Pathway Plan (detailing all the issues in Schedule 8 of the 2010 Regulations) and a Personal
Advisor has been appointed.
446 </li>
447 </ul>
448 <p>
448 An Eligible child will have the status and entitlements of a 'care leaver'. As such, they will be
able to receive ongoing support, advice and encouragement to maximise their potential and will
benefit from having direct support from their Personal Adviser up to the age of 25 yrs where they
are in Education and Training.
448 </p>
449 <h3 id="ch_la_short_brks">
449 4. Children who are Looked After for Short Periods (Fewer than 20 days) Including Short Term
Breaks
449 </h3>
450 <p>
450 In the event a child may have become Looked After for a short period, fewer than 20 days, such as
in a family crisis, it is not necessary for the Nominated Officer to approve their return home in
these circumstances. However, the social worker and team manager must be satisfied that the return
is (or remains) in the child's best interests and the arrangements will (continue to) safeguard
and promote the child's welfare.
450 </p>
451 <p>
451 Nevertheless, there will be situations where such circumstances create concern with respect to the
child's vulnerability and where it is appropriate to consider whether the child should have a
Child Protection Plan (see
451 <a href="p_sec_47_enq.html">
451 Child Protection Enquiries (Section 47)
451 </a>
451 ) or be a Child In Need (see
451 <a href="p_cin_plans_rev.html">
451 Child in Need of Our Support and Protection Procedure
451 </a>
451 ).
451 </p>
452 <h4>
452 4.1 Short Term Breaks
452 </h4>
453 <p>
453 The process for ceasing to look after a child should also apply to Short Term Breaks (where the
Child is considered to be Accommodated in these circumstances), unless the Child is subject to
453 <a href="http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2010/959/regulation/48/made" target="_blank"
rel="noopener">
453 Regulation 48 (1989 Act, The Care Planning, Placement and Case Review Regulations 2010)
453 </a>
453 .
453 </p>
454 <p>
454 (See also
454 <a
href="https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/441643/Children_Ac
t_Guidance_2015.pdf#page=136" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
454 The Children Act 1989, Care Planning, Placement and Case Review Regulations 2015
454 </a>
454 ).
454 </p>
455 <p>
455 In these instances the Child will already be a Child in Need and the Children's Social Services
Department and partner agencies will have a considerable level of understanding with respect to
the child and the parent or carers with a good level of communication between the practitioners
and the family/child.
455 </p>
456 <p>
456 Nevertheless, the practitioner and team manager should always remain alert and sensitive to
changes within the family's circumstances.
456 </p>
457 <p>
457 (See also
457 <a href="files/short_breaks_policy.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
457 Short Breaks Procedure
457 </a>
457 ).
457 </p>
458 <h4 id="relinquished">
458 4.2 Relinquished Children
458 </h4>
459 <p>
459 In particular, where children are relinquished at birth, and prior to placing a child in an
adoptive placement, the child may be placed in a fostering placement under Section 20. In these
circumstances, consent for the child to be placed for adoption and for an Adoption Order to be
made can be withdrawn, and consent cannot be sought where the child is under 6 weeks of age,
unless there is a Placement Order. (See
459 <a href="http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2002/38/section/18" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
459 Sections 18 – 20 Adoption and Children Act 2002
459 </a>
459 ).
459 </p>
460 <p>
460 Where a parent withdraws consent and the child is placed under Section 20, as part of the
assessment raised in
460 <a href="#assessment">
460 Section 2.1
460 </a>
460 careful consideration should be given to:
460 </p>
461 <ul>
462 <li>
462 The circumstances with regard to the reasons for the child being relinquished;
462 </li>
463 <li>
463 Any previous personal history of the parent or family;
463 </li>
464 <li>
464 The period of time elapsed between the child being relinquished and the parent's change of mind;
and,
464 </li>
465 <li>
465 The reasons for the parent's change of mind;
465 </li>
466 <li>
466 The Contact / interest expressed by the parent during their separation;
466 </li>
467 <li>
467 Issues of bonding by the parent;
467 </li>
468 <li>
468 Preparation for caring for the child;
468 </li>
469 <li>
469 Proposed caring environment / home circumstances and support for the parent.
469 </li>
470 </ul>
471 <p>
471 This list is not exhaustive and the information provided as part of the Accommodation and
relinquishing procedure will be key in identifying whether safeguarding processes should be
invoked.
471 </p>
472 <p>
472 The social worker and team manager should determine whether the child should be considered as a
Child In Need, (if the child has been accommodated for fewer than 20 days), but irrespective of
this, there should be clear communication and liaison with GP and health visiting services in
respect of the circumstances of the child.
472 </p>
473 <p>
473 <span class="bold">
473 Note
473 </span>
473 : where the child has been Accommodated for more than 20 days, then the permission of the
Nominated Officer is required for the child to be returned to the parent's care and due
consideration be given to the Review decisions. (See
473 <a href="#ch_acc_under_s20">
473 Section 2, Children Accommodated under Section 20
473 </a>
473 ).
473 </p>
474 <h3 id="administration">
474 5. Administration / Process Issues
474 </h3>
475 <p>
475 As with all changing circumstances, the practitioner should:
475 </p>
476 <ul>
477 <li>
477 Ensure that a Child in Need Plan is drawn up and distributed to all relevant
professionals/agencies involved;
477 </li>
478 <li>
478 Establish a Working Agreement with the Parent or Carer where relevant;
478 </li>
479 <li>
479 Ensure the child is appropriately supported through the transitional phase, including any
emotional support, ensuring belongings, mementos, information and other discussions with the
parent or carer;
479 </li>
480 <li>
480 Ensure that the parent or carer is appropriately supported through the transitional phase;
480 </li>
481 <li>
481 Where education has been an issue for a child or young person, and they have necessarily had to
change school, ensure their transition back to their education setting is supported by the
setting, the family and promoted with the child or young person;
481 </li>
482 <li>
482 Ensure that all partner agencies are made aware of the change of legal status of the child,
particularly the school or nursery, the Health Visitor and GP;
482 </li>
483 <li>
483 Where the placement has been out of the local authority, the local authority where the child was
placed should be informed of the move of the child;
483 </li>
484 <li>
484 Where there has been another Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) involved the CCG should be
promptly advised of the child's move so that the medical documents can be transferred. The
Child's home CCG should also be informed of the change so that the child's Health Plan can be
progressed without delay;
484 </li>
485 <li>
485 Ensure that the Placement Team is informed, and where the provider is an independent provider,
that notice is given as soon as possible and within the commissioning/contractual arrangements;
485 </li>
486 <li>
486 Inform the IRO;
486 </li>
487 <li>
487 Ensure that the electronic record is updated to amend the status and address details etc;
487 </li>
488 <li>
488 Ensure that School and Health records are effectively transferred (where appropriate) to support
a smooth transition of information.
488 </li>
489 </ul>
490 <h3>
490 Appendices
490 </h3>
491 <p>
491 <a href="http://www.workingtogetheronline.co.uk/chapters/chapter_one.html#flow_six"
target="_blank" rel="noopener">
491 Appendix 1: Working Together to Safeguard Children, Flowchart 6: Children returning home from
care to their families
491 </a>
491 </p>
492 </div>
495 </main>
496 </div>
499 <footer>
500 <div class="footer">
501 <div>
502 <p>
502 <a href="privacypolicy.html">
502 Privacy Policy
502 </a>
502 <br>
503 <span style="font-size:small;">
504 <span id='desktop_button' tabindex='0'>
504 Desktop
504 </span>
504 |
504 <span id='mobile_button' tabindex='0'>
504 Mobile
504 </span>
504 |
504 <span id='responsive_button' tabindex='0' style='text-decoration:underline'>
504 Responsive
504 </span>
504 </span>
504 </p>
506 <div id="trix_logo">
507 <a href="https://www.trixonline.co.uk/" target="_blank" class="imagelink">
507 <img src="images/trixlogo.png" height="40" alt="Tri.x Logo links to Tri.x homepage"/>
507 </a>
508 </div>
509 </div>
510 </div>
512 </footer>
513 <div id="desktoptest">
513 </div>
514 <script>
641 </script>
643 <script>
652 </script>
654 <script>
701 </script>
704 <script>
706 </script>
714 <script>
753 </script>
754 <script type="text/javascript">
754 </script>
756 <script>
795 </script>
799 <script type="text/javascript">
811 </script>
812 </body>
813 </html>