‘L’
This referral made due to parental substance misuse which impacted on their ability to care for their son and placed him at risk. The parents continued to engage and accept professional involvement, support, and resources so much so that there Children’s Social Care case was deescalated to a Child in Need Plan. However, school attendance for their young son remained an issue, including him turning up late, or being extremely tired all the time. The young boy remains very protective of his Mum and requires reassurance that she is ok, and he does not need to worry about her.
The family pulled together a support plan that makes sure that L is safeguarded when Children’s Social Care are no longer involved with the family. The Plan also included a plan of action should the parent’s relapse, there were clear actions how the family would recognise this and what safety measures they would they put in place for L.
School was also an integral part of the safety planning network going forward. After the Family Group Conference process had taken place Children’s Social Care informed the family that they were going to close the case, which was a positive outcome for all concerned.
Family Group Conferences provide the opportunity for people to work together with their support network to establish a safe and sustainable way forward.