It is essential that all parties are provided with clear and accurate information, which will make effective planning possible. The family is the primary planning group in the process. Family members need to be able to understand what the issues are from the perspective of the professionals. The family and involved professionals should be clear about:
- What the professional findings are from any core assessment of the child and family.
- What the family understands about their current situation.
- What decisions are required.
- What decisions have already taken.
- The family’s scope for decision-making, and whether there are any issues/decisions that are not negotiable.
- What resources are, or might be, available to implement any plan. Within this framework, agencies and professionals should agree to support the plan if it does not place the child at risk of significant harm, and if the resources requested can be provided.
