Local authority adult or children’s social services assist family members who have additional needs that health, education, or community services can’t address. They are also required to protect vulnerable minors and adults who may be at risk of harm from family members or others. The degree of assistance available varies by the local authority, and while the legislation dictates what their responsibilities are, they also have their own “thresholds” for when they will fulfil a duty.
What are social services?
Social services are required by law to safeguard and enhance the wellbeing of children and vulnerable persons and may offer a variety of services to kids and their families, typically inside their own homes. Families are frequently concerned about social services’ involvement because they have heard stories from others or simply because they are afraid that social workers will take their children away from home.
Children’s fears about being kidnapped are reasonable, but they must be based on reliable evidence that they will suffer significant harm. There must also be a court order in place to justify the removal of your child. If your kid believes he or she is in immediate danger, the police can take them into “police protection,” but they must return your child to your care within the next 48 hours unless an Emergency Protection Order (EPO) is issued by the court.
There are numerous social services divisions to satisfy a variety of demands. There is an adult social services agency that serves the elderly and working-age adults who have learning difficulties, physical or mental health issues, or addictions. A “young caregiver” may be assigned to look after a parent with a disability if they are a child. The majority of mental health trusts provide social assistance to adult individuals suffering from mental illness or alcoholism.
The goal is to bring all the services together in the interest of the entire family. If there are concerns that a youngster is suffering or in danger, a social worker from the Children’s Services department (sometimes known as Children’s Social Care) will take over.
Why social services may become involved
In cases of serious need, a parent or other adult family member, as well as an older kid, may seek advice from social services. This request can be made on behalf of a professional who is acquainted with the family, such as a teacher, family centre worker, or doctor.
A neighbourhood-based social worker or a multi-agency assessment team member (sometimes known as a MASH team) based in your local authority might offer further evaluation, fast help, or a referral to appropriate community-based support and services.
Assist parents and relatives who are disabled or care for a disabled kid, such as providing ‘short break’ services (inside or outside of the home). There may be child protection concerns, including the risk that adult violence could harm the children.
As an emergency or planned short-term solution, the parent may request that their youngster be placed in foster care or residential care. Following police or court action, children are taken into custody. When a kid is already in custody, a judge will issue a court order for adoption.
Referral to social services
Social services may contact you in a variety of ways. You can contact your local social services office and get assistance – see here for more information on local social service agencies. Other professionals who deal with your family, such as schools, doctors, health visitors, and others might make referrals. If it is believed that a youngster is being abused or neglected, practitioners, family members, or anybody else who is concerned may turn to social services for help.
If you’re currently dealing with Social Services currently, then don’t hesitate to reach out to Wilson Browne. They’re specialised in in assisting families on their family issues.
