Recording the Decision and Next Steps (Transition Procedures)

1. Recording the Decision

Recording of the decision should be clear and comprehensive yet proportionate. Anyone reading the recording should be able to (as quickly and easily as possible) understand;

What decision has been made; and
The rationale for the decision.

2. Following up on Information and Advice

If the decision is to carry out a child's needs assessment you should refer to the procedures in the 'Establishing Needs' area of these procedures.

3. Next Steps: No Transition

The decision should be communicated to the young person and their parents at the earliest opportunity.

Any telephone communication must be followed up in writing to both the young person and their parents. The letter must explain;

The reason the assessment is not being carried out;
Information and advice about what can be done to prevent or reduce the development of needs for Care and Support in the future; and
What to do if their needs change in the future.

The general Local Authority letter template should be used for this purpose. Click here to access it.

Whenever you refuse to carry out a child's needs assessment on the basis that the timing is not of significant benefit you must indicate when it may be of significant benefit and make appropriate arrangements to make sure that the assessment is carried out at that time.

Managing disagreement

If you are sure of your decision, but the young person or their family disagree with it you should;

Explain your reasons for thinking the assessment may be inappropriate; and
Use professional expertise and evidence to support your rationale.

Where the decision remains in dispute you must decide whether you are authorised and confident to make a final decision. If you are then you should do so.

If the young person or their family is not happy with the decision made you must make them aware of their right to complain about it.

Click here to access information about the different ways a person can complain.