Emergency action addresses only the immediate circumstances of the child(ren). The local authority should follow this action quickly by initiating section 47 enquiries as necessary. The agencies primarily involved with the child and family should be involved in the core assessment to understand the needs and circumstances of the child and family, and agree action to safeguard and promote the welfare of the child in the longer-term. Where an EPO applies, local authority children’s social care will have to consider quickly whether to initiate care or other proceedings or to let the order lapse and the child return home.
