Information for parents, carers and families

What happens before the conference

Before the meeting we need to get as detailed a picture as possible of what is happening. A social worker is asked to do this, he or she will talk to you and your child and to everyone who may be able to give us information about your family and your child (e.g. your doctor, or your child's health visitor or teacher).

The social worker will check the information that they get from other people and will write a report for the meeting. They will tell you what they have written and you can read it before the meeting if you want to.

Some of the people your social worker speaks to will also write a report which they should share with you prior to the meeting and also bring to the meeting. If you want to write down what you think and bring it to the meeting you can. Talk to your social worker about the best way to do this.

Your social worker will tell you who will be at the meeting and why they will be there.

Don't forget that if you have any further questions, or you would like things explained in more detail, your social worker is there to help you.

You may wish to have help with an interpreter if you speak a different language, or you may have special requirements. Please tell your social worker if you do so that arrangements can be made to help you.

What happens at the Conference

The person chairing the meeting will explain why it is being held and the order in which things will be discussed. Everyone at the meeting, including you and your child, will be introduced. 

The people who know you want your family will describe your child's situation and talk about any concerns they may have. They will also talk about the strengths you have as a parent and family. 

You will be asked for your views, and your child will be asked to say what he or she thinks as well. 

All this information will be discussed, so that the people at the Child Protection Conference can decide what should happen next.

What is said at the Child Protection Conference will not be passed on to anyone else unless it is in the interest of your child to do so.