Young Person's Guide to Child Protection Conferences
Child Protection is about making sure children and young people are safe and being looked after properly, and not being hurt by anyone.
Everyone working with children and young people in Havering have to make sure that children are safe, and this is called Child Protection.
Why does a Child Protection Conference happen?
If an adult who knows you is concerned about your safety, they may decide to talk to Children’s Services (that's us).
A social worker will talk to you, your parents, family and teachers about how things are going at home and at school. This is called a Child Protection Enquiry.
After the social worker has completed the Child Protection Enquiry, they may decide that things are safe at home and there is no need for any further action, or that we might need to help support you and your family.
If they think you are at risk or unsafe then they would set up a meeting called a Child Protection Conference.
What is a Child Protection Conference?
The conference is a meeting where parents, the social worker and other professionals who know the family get together to discuss the concerns and decide what can be done to keep you safe from harm.
Who will be at the conference?
- Your parents and/or family
- Your teacher
- A doctor or nurse
- The Police
- Social workers
There may be some other people there to help and support your parents and family.
Do I have to go to the Conference?
You might be asked to go to the conference.
This is so you can be involved in the process and have your say.
You can get support from an advocate or social worker.
You do not have to attend the conference if you do not want to.
What if I don't go?
If you don't go, don't worry - your social worker will help you and make sure your voice is heard.
You could write a letter, record a voice note or a video to have your say.
You could ask other adults who you trust to help with this too.
What happens at the conference?
At the initial child protection conference, everybody says who they are and how they know you.
The social worker explains why they think you are not safe and why a conference had to be held.
Everyone gets a chance to say how they think you are and whether you and your parents need help in keeping you safe from harm.
If everyone thinks you are not safe, they make a plan called a Child Protection Plan.
What is a Child Protection Plan?
A Child Protection Plan is a plan designed to keep you safe.
It includes things that need to happen or change to protect you, and support those around you.
The plan could include things like going to the doctors, help with school, speaking to a social worker or child care. The plan is reviewed after 3 to 6 months, to see how you're getting on.
It may be decided that you do not need a Child Protection Plan anymore. It is important to remember that the plan is there to keep you safe from harm.
What happens next? Will I still live at home?
Most children and young people continue to live at home with their family. If we think it is unsafe for you to stay at home, we will have to go to court to get permission for you to live elsewhere.
What happens to my parents?
Your parents might need some support if things aren't going well at home, and this is what a conference will help with.
Your social worker will help your family and parents to make home safer for everyone.
What if I'm not happy?
This can be a difficult time for you and we understand sometimes decisions may be made that might not be what you want, but your safety always comes first.
We will always listen to your views.
If you are unhappy about anything you can talk to your social worker.
You can also make a complaint; ask your social worker for the special children’s complaints form.
If you'd like to speak to someone outside Havering Safeguarding, you can contact these groups for help:
- Childline: 0800 1111
- NSPCC: 0800 800 5000