No Significant Harm

If it is decided that the child is not at risk of significant harm, the next steps depend on which category the child is in, as follows:

  • no particular needs – there is no need to take further action
  • additional needs – a lead professional should be allocated. They may come from any agency working with the family, and should coordinate an agreed plan to meet the child’s needs
  • in need – a social worker should be allocated to coordinate an agreed plan to meet the child’s needs.

How to do it

The findings of the initial assessment must be discussed with the child and their parents and a copy of the completed assessment should be given to them; if this is not done, the reasons must be clearly recorded.

If it is agreed with the family that a plan should be made to meet the identified needs of the child, the lead professional should discuss with the family who should be involved and how.