The meeting reviewed procedures for assessing the risk of harm to children, including gathering information from all relevant parties and supporting families as appropriate.
Steps were outlined for initial investigation, involving interviewing the child, parents, and professionals, as well as the use of interpreters when needed.
The discussion covered processes for sharing findings with parents, supporting their participation in conferences, and assembling child protection plans when necessary.
Attendees included social workers, managers, and professionals from related services such as health and education.
Action Items
(no due date – Social Worker): Ensure parents receive a clear explanation of concerns prior to any conference.
(no due date – Social Worker): Discuss report findings with parents and record their feedback or disagreements for inclusion in the conference.
(no due date – Social Worker/Case Manager): Assist parents with childcare arrangements and support guests for conference attendance.
(no due date – Social Worker): Inform parents in advance of all professionals and support persons who will attend the conference.
Assessment and Investigation Process
Upon referral, a social worker is assigned to assess the risk of harm to the child.
The assessment includes meeting the child (preferably alone, in a comfortable environment), parents, and obtaining input from all relevant professionals.
Interpreters are used if required to ensure clear communication.
Not all investigations lead to a formal conference; some may result in providing support to the family if risk is deemed manageable.
Information from all parties, including the child (if age-appropriate), is gathered to inform next steps.
Reporting and Parental Involvement
A report is shared and discussed with the parents, allowing them to voice disagreement or add information.
Parental feedback is considered and, if relevant, raised at the conference.
Parents are given clear, advance notice of concerns and the reasons for any formal meetings or conferences.
Child Protection Conferences and Support Planning
Parents are informed of all professionals and any support persons (family, friends, or advocates) who will attend the conference.
Assistance is provided for parents to arrange childcare and support attendance at the conference.
Conferences are attended by professionals from social services, police, health, education, and others as appropriate.
If a protection plan is required, it includes actions for both the child and parent(s), such as attending support programs.
Post-conference, a smaller core group meeting is held (within 10 working days if not immediate), involving key professionals and parents to implement and monitor the protection plan.
Decisions
Parents must be fully informed and supported throughout assessment and conference processes — to ensure transparency, participation, and inclusion of their perspective in all stages.