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How does a child become 'looked after'?

 
A child becomes 'looked after' when:

  • the child can't live with his or her own family

  • there is no-one else to look after the child and so Children's Services takes care of them.
Before a child becomes looked after, social workers look very carefully at the child's situation. Everybody must be certain that care is the best option.

Parents, carers and children are involved as much as possible. It is very important that the child's feelings and wishes are heard.

All options for children who need care will be considered. We will consider whether it is possible for the child to be looked after by other family members, or close friends.

We will consider if the child could be fostered for a while, or if residential services would be in the child's best interests.

If a child is to become looked after, the person who has parental responsibility needs to agree. 

They will be asked to sign an agreement and give consent for medical treatment in an emergency. 

Wherever possible, plans are made to work with the family and the child with the aim of returning the child safely to the care of their family, with support if necessary.

Progress reviews

Every looked after child has an allocated social worker who is responsible for visiting the child on a regular basis to make sure the placement is meeting all their needs. 

Regular meetings called Looked After Reviews are held to review the progress being made and to draw up a Care Plan. These meetings are chaired by independent reviewing officers. 

Parents are encouraged to attend these meetings and to have as much contact as possible with their child.

Further information

Please contact Children's Services using the contact information at the top-right of this page for more information.

A to Z of Services

Children's Services

  • 020 8921 3172