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>
6 <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=UA-120055720-38">
6 </script>
7 <script>
13 </script>
16 <meta charset="utf-8">
18 <title>
18 Ceasing to Look After a Child
18 </title>
20 <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0">
21 <link href="css/bootstrap.min.css" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css">
22 <link href="https://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=Lato:400,700" rel="stylesheet">
23 <link rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" href="css/jquery-ui.css">
24 <link href="css/jquery.tocify.css" rel="stylesheet">
25 <link rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" href="css/formatting-styles.css">
26 <link href="css/print.css" rel="stylesheet" media="print">
41 <link rel='shortcut icon'
href='https://www.proceduresonline.com/resources/logos/procedures/favicon.ico' type='image/x-icon'/>
42 <link rel="apple-touch-icon"
href="https://www.proceduresonline.com/resources/logos/procedures/apple-touch-icon-57x57-precomposed.png
" />
43 <link rel="apple-touch-icon" sizes="72x72"
href="https://www.proceduresonline.com/resources/logos/procedures/apple-touch-icon-72x72-precomposed.png
" />
44 <link rel="apple-touch-icon" sizes="114x114"
href="https://www.proceduresonline.com/resources/logos/procedures/apple-touch-icon-114x114-precomposed.png
" />
48 <link rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" href="css/procedures.css">
49 <link rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" href="css/classic-theme.css">
50 <link rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" href="css/authority.css">
51 <link rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" href="js/cookie-code/jquery.cookiebar.css">
52 <link rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" href="css/hover-box.css">
53 <link rel="stylesheet" type="text/css" href="css/mobile.css">
56 <link rel="stylesheet" id="switcher-css" type="text/css" href="css/switcher.css" media="all" />
57 <link rel="alternate stylesheet" type="text/css" href="css/dark.css" title="dark" media="all" />
58 <link rel="alternate stylesheet" type="text/css" href="css/light.css" title="light" media="all" />
59 <link rel="alternate stylesheet" type="text/css" href="css/normal.css" title="normal" media="all" />
63 </head>
64 <body onload="highlight();">
65 <a class="skip-main" href="#main">
65 Skip to main content
65 </a>
67 <div id="eantics">
67 </div>
68 <div class="print">
73 <div class="navbar navbar-fixed-top" role="navigation">
74 <div class="row banner">
75 <div id="banner">
76 <div class="container banner">
77 <div class="col-sm-4">
78 <div class="outer_logo">
78 <a href="index.html">
78 <img class="banner_logo" src="images/logo/client_logo.png" width="261" height="86"
alt="Warrington logo">
78 </a>
78 </div>
79 </div>
80 <div class="col-sm-6">
81 <div class="outer">
82 <div class="inner">
83 <header>
83 Warrington Children's Services Procedures Manual
83 </header>
84 </div>
85 </div>
86 </div>
87 </div>
89 </div>
91 </div>
92 <div class="container">
93 <div class="navbar-header">
94 <button type="button" class="navbar-toggle" data-toggle="collapse"
data-target=".navbar-collapse">
94 <span class="sr-only">
94 Toggle navigation
94 </span>
94 <span class="icon-bar">
94 </span>
94 <span class="icon-bar">
94 </span>
94 <span class="icon-bar">
94 </span>
94 </button>
95 </div>
96 <div class="collapse navbar-collapse">
100 <ul class="nav navbar-nav">
101 <li>
101 <a href="index.html">
101 Home
101 </a>
101 </li>
102 <li>
102 <a href="contents.html">
102 Policies and Procedures
102 </a>
102 </li>
103 <li class="dropdown">
103 <a class="dropdown-toggle" data-toggle="dropdown" href="#">
103 Resources
103 <span class="caret">
103 </span>
103 </a>
104 <ul class="dropdown-menu">
105 <li>
105 <a href="local_resources.html">
105 Additional Local Resources
105 </a>
105 </li>
106 <li>
106 <a href="http://trixresources.proceduresonline.com/nat_key/index.htm" target="_blank"
rel="noopener">
106 Glossary
106 </a>
106 </li>
107 <li>
107 <a href="http://trixresources.proceduresonline.com/nat_cont/index.htm"target="_blank"
rel="noopener">
107 National Contacts
107 </a>
107 </li>
108 <li>
108 <a href="http://www.minimumstandards.org/regulations.html" target="_blank"
rel="noopener">
108 Regulatory Framework
108 </a>
108 </li>
109 <li>
109 <a href="http://www.keepingchildrensafeineducation.co.uk/" target="_blank"
rel="noopener">
109 KCSIE
109 </a>
109 </li>
110 </ul>
111 </li>
112 <li>
112 <a href="using_this_manual.html">
112 Using this Manual
112 </a>
112 </li>
113 <li>
113 <a href="https://www.proceduresonline.com/pancheshire/warrington/index.html"
target="_blank" rel="noopener">
113 Safeguarding Partnership Procedures
113 </a>
113 </li>
114 </ul>
115 <ul class="nav navbar-nav navbar-right">
115 <li class="dropdown">
115 <a class="dropdown-toggle" data-toggle="dropdown" href="#">
115 Accessibility
115 <span class="caret">
115 </span>
115 </a>
115 <ul class="dropdown-menu">
115 <li>
115 <a href="#Larger" rel="light" class="styleswitch">
115 <span id="Larger">
115 Larger Text
115 </span>
115 </a>
115 </li>
115 <li class="divider">
115 </li>
115 <li>
115 <a href="#High" rel="dark" class="styleswitch">
115 <span id="High">
115 High Visibility
115 </span>
115 </a>
115 </li>
115 <li class="divider">
115 </li>
115 <li>
115 <a href="#Default" rel="normal" class="styleswitch">
115 <span id="Default">
115 Default Text
115 </span>
115 </a>
115 </li>
115 </ul>
115 </li>
115 <li>
115 <a href="zoom/search.php" class="btn btn-1 btn-1a">
115 SEARCH
115 </a>
115 </li>
115 </ul>
117 </div>
119 </div>
120 </div>
125 <div class="container" id="main">
126 <div class="col-sm-4">
127 <div id="toc">
127 </div>
129 </div>
132 <div class="col-sm-8 main_content">
133 <div class="panel panel-default">
134 <div class="share">
134 <span>
134 <a href="#Email" class="st_email glyphicon glyphicon-envelope" style="margin-right:1px;">
134 <span id="Email" class="hidden_share">
134 Email
134 </span>
134 </a>
134 </span>
134 <span>
134 <a href="#Print" id="PrintBtn" class="glyphicon glyphicon-print">
134 <span id="Print" class="hidden_share">
134 Print
134 </span>
134 </a>
134 </span>
134 </div>
135 <div class="panel-body">
136 <h1>
136 Ceasing to Look After a Child
136 </h1>
141 <div class="well">
142 <p class="bold">
142 SCOPE OF THIS CHAPTER
143 </p>
144 <p>
144 This chapter reflects the statutory guidance 'Ceasing to look after a child' in '
144 <a
href="https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/441643/Child
ren_Act_Guidance_2015.pdf#page=125" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
144 Care Planning, Placement and Case Review Regulations (2015)
144 </a>
144 ' as amended by the 'Care Planning and Fostering (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations
2015' and The Children and Social Work Act 2017, together with
144 <a href="http://www.workingtogetheronline.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
144 Working Together to Safeguard Children
144 </a>
144 .
144 </p>
145 <p>
145 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 years and has been Accommodated under Section 20, before discharge.
145 </p>
146 <p class="bold">
146 RELEVANT CHAPTER
146 </p>
147 <p>
147 <a href="p_leaving_care.html">
147 Leaving Care and Transition Procedure
147 </a>
147 </p>
148 <p class="bold">
148 RELEVANT GUIDANCE
148 </p>
149 <p>
149 <a
href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/children-act-1989-care-planning-placement-a
nd-case-review" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
149 The Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations - Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and
Case Review (2015)
149 </a>
149 </p>
150 <a href="http://www.workingtogetheronline.co.uk/chapters/chapter_one.html" target="_blank"
rel="noopener">
150 Working Together to Safeguard Children, Assessing need and providing help
150 </a>
150 </div>
157 <div class="section">
157 <h2 id="context">
157 1. Context
157 </h2>
158 <p>
158 Children become accommodated through section 20 for many different reasons and are some of
the most vulnerable children. Section 20 Accommodation can:
158 </p>
159 <ul>
160 <li>
160 Offer children and families short term support as a result of disability (short term
break);
160 </li>
161 <li>
161 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;
161 </li>
162 <li>
162 Be the first stage for a relinquished child – particularly a child under 6 weeks of age;
162 </li>
163 <li>
163 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;
163 </li>
164 <li>
164 Ensure appropriate care to a child who presents as 'abandoned';
164 </li>
165 <li>
165 Be a way of managing a child where there are concerns of significant harm as a result of
appearing to be 'beyond parental control';
165 </li>
166 <li>
166 Offer the level of support and care required to an unaccompanied young person from abroad
(see
166 <a href="p_uasc.html">
166 Unaccompanied Migrant Children and Child Victims of Trafficking and Modern Slavery
Procedure
166 </a>
166 ).
166 </li>
167 </ul>
168 <p>
168 When a child is Accommodated (and it is not part of a planned
168 <a href="p_short_breaks.html">
168 Short Break
168 </a>
168 ), 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.
168 </p>
169 <p>
169 The first Case Review should take place within 20 working 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.
169 </p>
170 <p>
170 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
170 <a href="#circumstances">
170 Section 2.3, Circumstances Around Ceasing to Look After a Child
170 </a>
170 ).
170 </p>
171 </div>
172 <div class="section1">
172 </div>
178 <div class="section">
178 <h2 id="ch_acc_under_s20">
178 2. Children Accommodated under Section 20
178 </h2>
179 <p>
179 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.
179 </p>
180 <p>
180 Ceasing to Look After a child will normally be part of the Care Plan that will fully
consider these issues. Where a child has been accommodated for 20 working days or more they
should have a discharge case review chaired by an Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO).
180 </p>
181 <h3>
181 2.1
181 <a id="assessment">
181 </a>
181 Assessment
181 </h3>
182 <p>
182 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.
182 </p>
183 <p>
183 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.
183 </p>
184 <p>
184 In making the decision to cease looking after a child, the authority must assess:
184 </p>
185 <ul>
186 <li>
186 The suitability of the child's proposed accommodation and maintenance when they cease to
be looked-after; and
186 </li>
187 <li>
187 What services and support the child might need and who they might contact for support;
187 </li>
188 <li>
188 Where the child is returning home, what services and support the parent might need and who
they might contact for support;
188 </li>
189 <li>
189 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;
189 </li>
190 <li>
190 Consideration must also be given to the wider context of the family and environmental
factors.
190 </li>
191 </ul>
192 <h3>
192 2.2 Decision Making
192 </h3>
193 <p>
193 Where a child has been in Care for 20 working days or more, the decision to cease looking
after the child should not be put into effect until it has been approved by the Nominated
Officer.
193 </p>
194 <p>
194 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
194 <a href="#ch_eligible">
194 Section 3, Children Who are 'Eligible Children' – Transition into Adulthood
194 </a>
194 ).
194 </p>
195 <p>
195 In making the decision, the Nominated Officer, or where relevant, the Director of
Children's Services must be satisfied that:
195 </p>
196 <ul>
197 <li>
197 The young person's wishes have been ascertained and considered;
197 </li>
198 <li>
198 The decision to cease to look after the child will safeguard and promote their welfare;
198 </li>
199 <li>
199 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;
199 </li>
200 <li>
200 The independent reviewing officer (IRO) has been informed.
200 </li>
201 </ul>
202 <h3>
202 2.3
202 <a id="circumstances">
202 </a>
202 Circumstances Around Ceasing to Look After a Child
202 </h3>
203 <p>
203 Circumstances around ceasing, or discharging, a child from being a Child in Care will vary
as much as the original reasons for Accommodating the child, but the discharge of the child
from being a Child in Care should always be undertaken in a timely and planned way that
reflects the needs and best interests of the child.
203 </p>
204 <p>
204 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.
204 </p>
205 <p>
205 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. (Note: a lack of
resources should not be a reason for delaying the child returning home).
205 </p>
206 <p>
206 However, when the local authority receives a request for the child to return home
immediately, (under
206 <a href="http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1989/41/section/20" target="_blank"
rel="noopener">
206 Section 20(8)
206 </a>
206 ) this must be responded to; any delay in so doing may bring severe criticism, and possible
financial penalty, from a court.
206 </p>
207 <p>
207 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:
207 </p>
208 <ul>
209 <li>
209 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;
209 </li>
210 <li>
210 The Nominated Manager's view should be sought;
210 </li>
211 <li>
211 Where a review has been undertaken, the IRO's opinion should be sought;
211 </li>
212 <li>
212 A Working Agreement with the parent or carer should be sought;
212 </li>
213 <li>
213 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.
213 </li>
214 <li>
214 Other partner agencies, such as Schools, Education Department and Health should be advised
of the change of circumstances;
214 </li>
215 <li>
215 A Child in Need Planning Meeting should be promptly arranged.
215 </li>
216 </ul>
217 <p>
217 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).
217 </p>
218 <h3 id="planning">
218 2.4 Planning
218 </h3>
219 <p>
219 Where a child who is not already considered to be a Child In Need but ceases to be a Child
in Care, the child will become a Child In Need (see
219 <a href="p_cin_plans_rev.html">
219 Child in Need Plans and Reviews Procedure
219 </a>
219 ).
219 </p>
220 <p>
220 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.
220 </p>
221 <p>
221 The Plan should:
221 </p>
222 <ul>
223 <li>
223 Take in to account the child's needs;
223 </li>
224 <li>
224 Take into account the child's views;
224 </li>
225 <li>
225 The parents' capacity to meet the needs of the child;
225 </li>
226 <li>
226 The existing family and support network;
226 </li>
227 <li>
227 The environmental/community factors – both positive and negative;
227 </li>
228 <li>
228 Acknowledge the child's changed legal status;
228 </li>
229 <li>
229 Establish other agencies roles and responsibilities with respect to the Plan.
229 </li>
230 </ul>
231 <p>
231 The Child in Need Plan should be subject to Review (see
231 <a href="p_cin_plans_rev.html#reviews_cin_plans">
231 Child In Need Plans and Reviews Procedure, Reviews of Child in Need Plans
231 </a>
231 ) to ensure the Plan remains relevant, appropriate and required or whether it should be
'stepped down' to a CAF Plan.
231 </p>
232 <h3 id="permanency">
232 2.5 Children Who Move into Permanency
232 </h3>
233 <p>
233 Some children will cease to be a Child in Care 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.
233 </p>
234 </div>
235 <div class="section1">
235 </div>
241 <div class="section">
241 <h2 id="ch_eligible">
241 3. Children Who are 'Eligible Children' – Transition into Adulthood
241 </h2>
242 <p>
242 See also
242 <a href="p_leaving_care.html">
242 Leaving Care and Transition Procedure
242 </a>
242 .
242 </p>
243 <p>
243 An Eligible Young Person is someone who is:
243 </p>
244 <ul>
245 <li>
245 Aged 16 or 17 years and has been in Care 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;
245 </li>
246 <li>
246 Ended after they reached the age of 16 years.
246 </li>
247 </ul>
248 <p>
248 Eligible Children are entitled to the same level of support as every other Child in Care,
during this important part of their development and transition (see
248 <a href="p_leaving_care.html">
248 Leaving Care and Transition Procedure
248 </a>
248 ).
248 </p>
249 <p>
249 In relation to an Eligible child, from their 16th birthday, the local authority must:
249 </p>
250 <ul>
251 <li>
251 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;
251 </li>
252 <li>
252 Prepare a pathway plan and review it regularly;
252 </li>
253 <li>
253 Where the child is still being in Care, arrange a personal adviser.
253 </li>
254 </ul>
255 <p>
255 (See
255 <a href="p_leaving_care.html#pers_advis">
255 Leaving Care and Transition Procedure, Personal Advisers
255 </a>
255 ).
255 </p>
256 <h3>
256 3.1 Assessment of Need
256 </h3>
257 <p>
257 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 years. It
should not require significant additional work if the young person is settled with an up to
date Care Plan.
257 </p>
258 <p>
258 This assessment of needs must take into account the following:
258 </p>
259 <ul>
260 <li>
260 The wishes and feelings of the young person;
260 </li>
261 <li>
261 Their parents or other person with Parental Responsibility;
261 </li>
262 <li>
262 The young person's health (including their physical, emotional and mental health) and
development;
262 </li>
263 <li>
263 The young person's continuing need for education, training or employment;
263 </li>
264 <li>
264 The support that will be offered by their parents, friends and that all other connected
persons will be able to give;
264 </li>
265 <li>
265 The financial resources available to the young person, together with an assessment of
their financial capability to manage their own finances;
265 </li>
266 <li>
266 The extent to which the young person possesses the practical and other skills they will
need to manage more independent living;
266 </li>
267 <li>
267 The young person's need for continuing care, support and accommodation;
267 </li>
268 <li>
268 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);
268 </li>
269 <li>
269 The views of the IRO;
269 </li>
270 <li>
270 The views of the Personal Adviser;
270 </li>
271 <li>
271 The views of any person providing health care to the young person;
271 </li>
272 <li>
272 The views any other person the local authority or young person feel is relevant.
272 </li>
273 </ul>
274 <p>
274 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.
274 </p>
275 <h3>
275 3.2 Planning
275 </h3>
276 <p>
276 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'.
276 </p>
277 <p>
277 The Pathway Plan must include what outcomes are to be achieved be with regard to the young
person.
277 </p>
278 <p>
278 The Pathway Plan must specify the name of the Personal Adviser and detail the arrangements
for visiting the young person. It should cover:
278 </p>
279 <ul>
280 <li>
280 Details of the young person's accommodation when they cease to be in Care, and how this
will be suitable in view of their assessed needs;
280 </li>
281 <li>
281 The plans and arrangements for the young person's continuing education and training;
281 </li>
282 <li>
282 What support the young person will require to enable them to develop and sustain
appropriate family and social relationships;
282 </li>
283 <li>
283 How the young person will be supported to build and develop their independent living
skills;
283 </li>
284 <li>
284 The financial support to be provided to enable the young person to meet accommodation and
personal living costs;
284 </li>
285 <li>
285 How the authority will assist the young person in obtaining employment or other purposeful
activity when they cease to be a Child in Care, taking into account their aspirations,
skills and educational potential;
285 </li>
286 <li>
286 The young person's financial capabilities and money management capacity, along with
strategies to develop skills in this area;
286 </li>
287 <li>
287 How the young person's physical, emotional and mental health needs will be met.
287 </li>
288 </ul>
289 <p>
289 The Pathway Plan should identify a contingency plan, (should the Pathway Plan not
effectively meet the young person's needs).
289 </p>
290 <p>
290 The Pathway Plan must be reviewed:
290 </p>
291 <ul>
292 <li>
292 When the young person requests; or
292 </li>
293 <li>
293 If the Personal Adviser considers it necessary; or
293 </li>
294 <li>
294 At least once every 6 months.
294 </li>
295 </ul>
296 <p>
296 The Plan should be adjusted accordingly with the young person's achievements, needs and
maturity.
296 </p>
297 <h3>
297 3.3 Decision Making
297 </h3>
298 <p>
298 For young people with Eligible status, discharge from care should not take place until the
Director of Children's Services has approved it.
298 </p>
299 <p>
299 In making the decision, the Director of Children's Services must be satisfied that:
299 </p>
300 <ul>
301 <li>
301 The young person's wishes and feelings have been ascertained and given due consideration;
301 </li>
302 <li>
302 The decision to cease to look after a child will safeguard and promote their welfare;
302 </li>
303 <li>
303 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;
303 </li>
304 <li>
304 The IRO has been informed;
304 </li>
305 <li>
305 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.
305 </li>
306 </ul>
307 <p>
307 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 years.
307 </p>
308 </div>
309 <div class="section1">
309 </div>
315 <div class="section">
315 <h2 id="ch_la_short_brks">
315 4. Children who are in Care for Short Periods (Fewer than 20 days) Including Short Term
Breaks
315 </h2>
316 <p>
316 In the event a child may have be in Care 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.
316 </p>
317 <p>
317 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
317 <a href="p_sec_47_enq.html">
317 Child Protection Enquiries (Section 47)
317 </a>
317 ) or be a Child In Need (see
317 <a href="p_cin_plans_rev.html">
317 Child in Need Plans and Reviews
317 </a>
317 ).
317 </p>
318 <h3>
318 4.1 Short Term Breaks
318 </h3>
319 <p>
319 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
319 <a href="http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2010/959/regulation/48/made" target="_blank"
rel="noopener">
319 Regulation 48 (1989 Act, The Care Planning, Placement and Case Review Regulations 2010)
319 </a>
319 .
319 </p>
320 <p>
320 (See also:
320 <a
href="https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/441643/Child
ren_Act_Guidance_2015.pdf#page=136" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
320 The Children Act 1989, Care Planning, Placement and Case Review Regulations 2015
320 </a>
320 ).
320 </p>
321 <p>
321 In these instances the Child will already be a Child in Need and the Children's 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.
321 </p>
322 <p>
322 Nevertheless, the practitioner and team manager should always remain alert and sensitive to
changes within the family's circumstances.
322 </p>
323 <p>
323 (See also:
323 <a href="p_short_breaks.html">
323 Short Breaks Procedure
323 </a>
323 ).
323 </p>
324 <h3>
324 4.2
324 <a id="relinquished">
324 </a>
324 Relinquished Children
324 </h3>
325 <p>
325 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
325 <a href="http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2002/38/section/18" target="_blank"
rel="noopener">
325 Sections 18 – 20 Adoption and Children Act 2002
325 </a>
325 ).
325 </p>
326 <p>
326 Where a parent withdraws consent and the child is placed under Section 20, as part of the
assessment raised in
326 <a href="#assessment">
326 Section 2.1 Assessment
326 </a>
326 careful consideration should be given to:
326 </p>
327 <ul>
328 <li>
328 The circumstances with regard to the reasons for the child being relinquished;
328 </li>
329 <li>
329 Any previous personal history of the parent or family;
329 </li>
330 <li>
330 The period of time elapsed between the child being relinquished and the parent's change of
mind; and,
330 </li>
331 <li>
331 The reasons for the parent's change of mind;
331 </li>
332 <li>
332 The contact / interest expressed by the parent during their separation;
332 </li>
333 <li>
333 Issues of bonding by the parent;
333 </li>
334 <li>
334 Preparation for caring for the child;
334 </li>
335 <li>
335 Proposed caring environment / home circumstances and support for the parent.
335 </li>
336 </ul>
337 <p>
337 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.
337 </p>
338 <p>
338 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.
338 </p>
339 <p>
339 <span class="bold">
339 Note:
339 </span>
339 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
339 <a href="#ch_acc_under_s20">
339 Section 2, Children Accommodated under Section 20
339 </a>
339 ).
339 </p>
340 </div>
341 <div class="section1">
341 </div>
347 <div class="section">
347 <h2 id="administration">
347 5. Administration / Process Issues
347 </h2>
348 <p>
348 As with all changing circumstances, the practitioner should:
348 </p>
349 <ul>
350 <li>
350 Ensure that a Child in Need Plan is drawn up and distributed to all relevant
professionals/agencies involved;
350 </li>
351 <li>
351 Establish a Working Agreement with the Parent or Carer where relevant;
351 </li>
352 <li>
352 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;
352 </li>
353 <li>
353 Ensure that the parent or carer is appropriately supported through the transitional phase;
353 </li>
354 <li>
354 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;
354 </li>
355 <li>
355 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;
355 </li>
356 <li>
356 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;
356 </li>
357 <li>
357 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;
357 </li>
358 <li>
358 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;
358 </li>
359 <li>
359 Inform the IRO;
359 </li>
360 <li>
360 Ensure that the electronic record is updated to amend the status and address details etc.
360 </li>
361 <li>
361 Ensure that School and Health records are effectively transferred (where appropriate) to
support a smooth transition of information.
361 </li>
362 </ul>
363 </div>
364 <div class="section1">
364 </div>
370 <div class="section">
370 <h2 id="app">
370 Appendix 1: Working Together to Safeguard Children, Flowchart 6: Children returning home
from care to their families
370 </h2>
371 <p>
371 <a href="http://www.workingtogetheronline.co.uk/chapters/chapter_one.html#flow_six"
target="_blank" rel="noopener">
371 Appendix 1: Working Together to Safeguard Children, Flowchart 6: Children returning home
from care to their families
371 </a>
371 .
371 </p>
372 </div>
373 <div class="section1">
373 </div>
376 </div>
379 <div id="footer">
380 <div class="copyright">
381 <p>
381 <a href="http://www.trixonline.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
381 <img src="images/logo/trix-logo.png" width="75" height="75" alt="trix logo">
381 </a>
381 Copyright© signisgroup
381 </p>
382 </div>
383 </div>
384 </div>
385 </div>
387 </div>
389 </div>
390 <div class="container">
392 <div class="modal modal-wide fade" id="myModal" tabindex="-1" role="dialog" aria-labelledby="myModal"
aria-hidden="true">
394 <div class="modal-dialog modal-lg">
394 <div class="modal-content">
394 <div class="modal-header">
394 <strong>
394 Local Resources
394 </strong>
394 </div>
394 <div class="modal-body">
396 
E960 [WCAG21 4.1.2 (A)] Do not use role=presentation|none or aria-hidden=true on a focusable element:
Using either of these on a sequentially focusable element will result in some users focusing on 'nothing'. A sequentially focusable element is an interactive element, or one with a positive 'tabindex'. See Fourth Rule of ARIA Use. <iframe src="https://proceduresonline.com/trixcms1/warringtoncs/doc-library/" title="Document library
popup">
396 </iframe>
398 <script>
398 </script>
398 </div>
398 <div class="modal-footer">
398 E960 [WCAG21 4.1.2 (A)] Do not use role=presentation|none or aria-hidden=true on a focusable element:
Using either of these on a sequentially focusable element will result in some users focusing on 'nothing'. A sequentially focusable element is an interactive element, or one with a positive 'tabindex'. See Fourth Rule of ARIA Use. <a href="#closepopup1" id="closepopup1" class="close" data-dismiss="modal" aria-hidden="true">
398 Close
398 </a>
398 </div>
398 </div>
398 </div>
398 </div>
398 </div>
400 <script src="js/val/test/jquery-1.11.3.min.js" defer>
400 </script>
401 <script type="text/javascript" src="js/highlight.js" defer>
401 </script>
402 <script src="js/iframe/iframeResizer.js">
402 </script>
404 <script src="https://maxcdn.bootstrapcdn.com/bootstrap/3.3.7/js/bootstrap.min.js" defer>
404 </script>
405 <script src="js/jqueryui/jquery-ui-1.9.1.custom.min.js" defer>
405 </script>
406 <script src="js/jquery.tocify.js" defer>
406 </script>
407 <script src="js/dropdowns-enhancement.js" defer>
407 </script>
408 <script src="js/scroll.js" defer>
408 </script>
409 <script src="js/custom.js" defer>
409 </script>
410 <script src="js/dmss.js" defer>
410 </script>
411 <script type="text/javascript"
src="https://cabbiepete.github.io/jQuery-Share-Email/js/jquery.tmpl.min.js" defer>
411 </script>
413 <script type="text/javascript" src="js/jQuery.print.js" defer>
413 </script>
414 <script src="js/jquery.shareemail.js" type="text/javascript" defer>
414 </script>
415 <script src="js/cookie-code/jquery.cookiebar.js" defer>
415 </script>
418 <a id="scrollup">
418 <i class="up">
418 </i>
418 </a>
419 <div id="background">
420 <p id="bg_text">
420 Trix procedures
420 </p>
421 <p id="bg_text_msg">
421 Only valid for 48hrs
421 </p>
422 </div>
427 <script type="text/javascript">
435 </script>
438 </body>
439 </html>