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What is a child protection conference?

A child protection conference is a meeting held to discuss and record all concerns about a child or children.  The aims of the meeting are to:

• Consider whether a child has been harmed or is at risk of being harmed and the nature of the concern about the child;
• Assess the degree of risk to the child’s health and well-being, and whether the child needs protection;
• Decide whether the child’s name should be included on the child protection register;
• Make recommendations about any further action needed to help the child.

Who is at the conference?
Parents and people from agencies who know the family are always invited to the conference, for example, their health visitor, schoolteacher, doctor, or social worker.  The meeting will be led by someone who has not been involved in the enquiries or case so far.  They will make sure that everyone has the chance to give their views.  We will invite the child concerned to come if this is appropriate.  We realise that it can be very difficult for parents or carers to come to a meeting like this.  It can be helpful to bring a partner, solicitor, or friend who can provide support.  If a solicitor comes, they will need to note that the conference is not a formal hearing.  Parents and carers do not have to come to the conference.  However, their views are very important if the meeting is going to come to the right conclusions.  If they do not come to the conference, they can pass their views on in writing.

We will hear the views and wishes of the children, whether they come to the child protection conference, or give their views and feelings about what is happening in some other way.

Confidentiality
All professionals at the meeting must keep to the strict rules of confidentiality.  They will not discuss they conference with anyone other than people they work with and who need to know.  Notes of the meeting are sent to parents and carers and everyone who was invited to go.  These notes are kept confidential.

What happens during the meeting?
Parents and carers meet the chairperson before the meeting, and read any reports which have been prepared.  We give an agenda of what will happen in the meeting to everyone.  Introductions are made, and parents and carers hear what everyone has to say, they also have a chance to ask questions, and give their own views.  Parents and carers will be able to tell social workers what help they need in caring for the child.

What if parents and carers disagree with what happens at the meeting?
If they disagree with the decisions or recommendations at a child protection conference, they can ask to meet the chairperson to discuss their concerns.  If they don’t feel they can talk to the chairperson, they can share their concerns with them in writing.

What happens next?
If a child is thought to be at risk of harm, we will draw up a child protection plan, and add their name to the child protection register.