Key points
Sometimes further assessments are needed because the assessment team is still unsure about why there are difficulties. If this is the case, it will probably be necessary to carry out a core assessment. Generally the same assessment team will undertake this.
At other times the initial assessment may identify particular areas that need further consideration (for example, parenting capacity, or the degree and effects of a learning disability). In these cases a specialist assessment is required and the lead professional is likely to refer to another service for this.
How to do it
The professionals involved in the assessment should explain to the family the further assessments required. If the family members agree, the assessment team then identifies who can undertake these, either from within the team or professionals outside it.
Lessons from research
Interviews with parents after the introduction of the Assessment Framework in 2000 revealed that they felt more involved in the assessment, with a greater sense of participation than previously, but 40 per cent were still disappointed with the resulting plans.
July 2009
