Information for Parents, Carers and Families
Being told that your child needs a Child Protection Plan can be upsetting and worrying.
Many parents tell us they feel scared when they hear the words “Child Protection Plan”. It is important to remember that the purpose of the plan is to help keep children safe and support families to make positive changes.
The plan focuses on what needs to happen to reduce worries, improve safety and help children thrive.
What is a Child Protection Plan?
A Child Protection Plan is made when professionals believe a child is at continuing risk of significant harm.
The plan sets out:
- What people are worried about.
- What needs to change.
- What support will be provided.
- Who is responsible for different actions.
- How progress will be checked.
The child remains at the centre of the plan.
Why Might a Child Protection Plan Be Needed?
A Child Protection Plan may be needed when professionals believe a child is at risk of:
- Physical abuse.
- Emotional abuse.
- Sexual abuse.
- Neglect.
The plan is designed to reduce risk and help make sure the child is safe.
How is a Child Protection Plan Decided?
A Child Protection Plan can only be made following a Child Protection Conference.
At the conference, professionals, parents and carers share information and discuss what life is like for the child.
The conference considers:
- The child’s needs.
- The child’s wishes and feelings.
- Risks and concerns.
- Family strengths.
- Support already in place.
The conference then decides whether a Child Protection Plan is needed.
What Happens if a Child Protection Plan is Made?
A Child Protection Plan is a written agreement setting out what needs to happen to keep the child safe.
The plan should clearly explain:
- What changes need to happen.
- What support will be provided.
- How professionals will help.
- What parents and carers need to do.
- How progress will be reviewed.
Everyone involved should understand their role.
Will My Child Stay at Home?
In most cases, yes.
Most children who are subject to a Child Protection Plan continue living at home with their families whilst support and monitoring take place.
The aim is to help families make changes so children can remain safe within their family wherever possible.
What is a Core Group?
If a Child Protection Plan is agreed, a smaller group of people called the Core Group is formed.
The Core Group usually includes:
- Parents and carers.
- The Social Worker.
- Other professionals who know the child and family.
The Core Group meets regularly to:
- Review progress.
- Discuss any worries.
- Make sure actions are being completed.
- Update the plan if needed.
How Often Will I See the Social Worker?
Your Social Worker will visit regularly.
The frequency of visits will depend on your child’s circumstances and the level of support required.
The Social Worker will:
- Get to know your child.
- Speak with family members.
- Monitor progress.
- Help coordinate support.
- Make sure the child’s safety remains the main priority.
What Support Might Be Available?
Families on Child Protection Plans can receive a range of support.
This may include:
- Parenting support.
- Help with routines and boundaries.
- Support with school attendance.
- Mental health support.
- Domestic abuse support.
- Substance misuse support.
- Housing advice.
- Financial support and guidance.
- Family support services.
The support offered will depend on the needs of the child and family.
What is a Safety Plan?
Sometimes a Safety Plan is agreed alongside a Child Protection Plan.
A Safety Plan focuses on immediate actions that help keep a child safe straight away.
For example:
- Identifying safe adults.
- Agreeing who can collect a child from school.
- Setting out who should be contacted in an emergency.
- Reducing contact with people who may present a risk.
Safety Plans are often short-term actions designed to reduce immediate risks.
What Happens if Things Improve?
A Child Protection Plan is regularly reviewed.
If professionals believe risks have reduced and the child is safe:
- The Child Protection Plan may end.
- Support may continue through a Child in Need Plan.
- Support may step down to Early Help services.
The aim is to provide the right support for as long as it is needed.
What Happens if Things Do Not Improve?
If serious concerns continue and professionals believe a child cannot be kept safe through a Child Protection Plan, Children’s Services may consider further legal options.
This could include:
- Public Law Outline (PLO).
- Care Proceedings.
- Applications to the Family Court.
If this happens, professionals should explain the process and your rights.
What Are My Rights?
Throughout a Child Protection Plan you should:
- Be treated with dignity and respect.
- Be involved in meetings and decisions.
- Have information explained clearly.
- Receive copies of plans and reports.
- Share your views.
- Ask questions.
- Bring a supporter to meetings.
- Request interpreting or communication support if needed.
Children should also be given opportunities to share their wishes and feelings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Child Protection Plan mean I have failed as a parent?
No.
Many families experience difficulties and need support. The purpose of the plan is to improve safety and wellbeing for children.
Does a Child Protection Plan mean my child will be removed?
No.
Most children on Child Protection Plans continue living with their families whilst support is provided.
How long does a Child Protection Plan last?
Every child’s situation is different.
Plans remain in place for as long as professionals believe they are needed to keep the child safe and support positive change. They are reviewed regularly.
Where Can I Get Support?
Your Social Worker
Your Social Worker should be your main point of contact and should help you understand the plan and what is expected.
Family Hubs
Family Hubs offer support for families across South Tyneside.
Telephone: 0800 783 4645
Children’s Social Care
Telephone: 0191 424 5010
Out of Hours: 0191 456 2093
Key Message
A Child Protection Plan is designed to help keep children safe when professionals believe they may be at risk of significant harm. The plan sets out what needs to change, what support will be provided and how progress will be monitored. The aim is to work with families, build on strengths and create lasting improvements that help children grow up safe, healthy and supported.