If social services have asked you to sign a safety plan for children or a written agreement, it is important to understand what these documents mean and the implications of signing them. These agreements are not legally binding but play a significant role in safeguarding concerns raised by the Local Authority.
Understanding the purpose of a safety plan, what happens if you don’t comply, and how to seek legal advice can help you make an informed decision.
What is a safety plan for a child?
A safety plan for children is a personalised document created to address concerns raised by social services. The aim is to ensure the child’s safety and wellbeing while they remain in the family home.
It should:
- Clearly outline how the Local Authority and family will work together.
- Detail specific support the Local Authority will provide.
- Include parents’ input and suggestions.
- Set clear expectations for all parties involved.
The document must be written in clear, understandable language and should not be presented as a final version without prior discussion with the family.
What does a safety plan include?
A social services safety plan typically outlines:
- The concerns raised by the Local Authority.
- Actions you are required to take, such as attending parenting courses or counselling.
- Specific behaviours you must avoid, like unsupervised contact with a child in certain circumstances.
- Support services available to help address the concerns, such as family network involvement or regular check-ins.
- The role of professionals, such as social workers, in monitoring progress.
Each child safety plan is tailored to the specific circumstances of the family and focuses on managing risks effectively.
What is the purpose of a safety plan?
The purpose of a safety plan is to:
- Safeguard children: Address concerns about the child’s safety and wellbeing while keeping them in the home.
- Support families: Help parents or carers make necessary changes to meet the child’s needs.
- Prevent escalation: Reduce the likelihood of further intervention, such as child protection plans or court proceedings.
The plan encourages families to work collaboratively with social services to create a safer environment for their children.
How long does a safety plan last for social services?
The duration of a social services child safety plan can vary depending on the level of risk and the progress made in addressing concerns. Safety plans are usually temporary and reviewed regularly.
During reviews, social workers will assess:
- Whether the concerns have been addressed.
- If the family is adhering to the plan.
- Whether additional support or changes to the plan are needed.
Once social services determine that the risks have been managed effectively, the plan may be ended.
What happens if I don’t sign a social services safety plan?
If you choose not to sign a social services safety plan, it is important to understand the potential consequences. While these plans are voluntary, refusing to sign or comply may cause the Local Authority to escalate their concerns.
Potential outcomes include:
- Increased scrutiny and monitoring of your family situation.
- Social services questioning your willingness to engage with their process.
- The Local Authority making an application to the Court for an order to safeguard the child.
It is essential to seek legal advice before refusing to sign a safety plan to ensure you understand your rights and options.
Consequences of breaching a social services written agreement
Although a written safety plan or agreement is not legally binding, breaching it can have serious implications.
- The Local Authority may use the breach as evidence to show a lack of cooperation with safeguarding processes.
- It may suggest that you are unwilling to make the necessary changes to address the concerns raised.
- Breaching the agreement could lead to the escalation of concerns, including Court proceedings and applications for care orders.
On the other hand, adhering to the plan can demonstrate your commitment to working with social services and creating a safe environment for your child.
Speak to our experts for legal advice on social services involvement
If you have been asked to sign a family safety plan or a written agreement, it is crucial to seek legal advice before agreeing to the terms. At Johnson Astills, our experienced team of Child Care solicitors can provide expert advice and representation at every stage of social services involvement.
Our Child Care team can help you:
- Understand the implications of signing a child protection safety plan.
- Review the terms of a written safety plan to ensure they are reasonable.
- Advise on alternatives if you are unable to comply with the proposed plan.
Contact us today for advice or to find out more about our services by giving us a call at your local branch in Leicester or Loughborough, or by filling in our online enquiry form.
