Section 47 enquiry

Section 47 Child protection The steps professionals must follow when they are worried a child may be at risk of serious harm. An enquiry is a check on whether a child is safe, not a verdict on you. Read the full definition of Child protection of the Children Act 1989 requires the local authority Local authority Your local council. In England, Wales and Scotland, this is the body you ask to assess what extra help your child needs. Read the full definition of Local authority to make enquiries when it has reason to suspect a child is suffering, or is likely to suffer, significant harm. A social worker will gather information, usually speak to your child, and talk to the school, the GP and other services.

This is different from a section 17 assessment Section 17 The part of the Children Act 1989 that says councils must support children in need. A social worker may name it as the legal basis for help your family is offered. Read the full definition of Section 17 , which is about support for a child in need Child in need A legal label councils use when a child needs extra help to grow and do well, or when a child is disabled. It is about unlocking support, and it is not a mark against you as a parent. Read the full definition of Child in need . A section 47 enquiry is about safety. It is frightening to be on the receiving end of one, and it is still worth engaging with it: you can ask the social worker to explain exactly what the concern is, you can bring a supporter or advocate to meetings, and you can ask for anything you are told to be put in writing.