Professionals working with children and young people
If you're a professional who is worried about a child or a young person, or you think a child or their family may need support, you should make a referral.
Getting consent for a referral
Before making a referral, you should tell the parent or carer and get consent from them.
You can make a referral without consent if it’s a child protection concern.
You have a responsibility to refer a child to Children's Social Care under section 11 of the Children Act 2004 if you believe or suspect that the child:
- Has suffered significant harm
- Is likely to suffer significant harm
- Has a disability, developmental and welfare needs which are likely only to be met through the family support services (with the agreement of the child's parent) under the Children Act 1989
- Is a child in need whose development would be likely to be impaired without the provision of services
If you’re worried about a child
If you’re worried that a child is at immediate risk of significant harm, you should make a Request for Safeguarding and Protection.
If the request is urgent call 0208708 3885, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.
The request for safeguarding and protection form should be completed after the call with as much information as possible.
Parents should not be advised of the referral if it puts the child at risk.
Request for information
If you’re a professional or local authority requesting information from social care, you need to complete the request for information form .
You’ll need to confirm you have consent or confirm the legal basis for your request.
