Amendments

March 2019

Updated Chapters
Chapter Name	Details
Children's Policies, Values and Principles - Including Recording, Confidentiality and Consultation	A new section has been added on Corporate Parenting in response to the DfE Applying Corporate Parenting Principles to Looked-after Children and Care Leavers – Statutory Guidance (Feb 2018). It includes the seven corporate parenting principles set out in the guidance. Section 6, Recording Values and Principles and Section 7, Confidentiality Values and Principles has also been reviewed and updated following the introduction of the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and Data Protection Act 2018. Please fully re-reference.
Electronic Recording of Meetings and Conversations	This guidance has been reviewed and updated following the introduction of the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and Data Protection Act 2018.
Family and Friends Care	This chapter has been substantially updated to reflect current legislation and terminology and to add links to Children Act 1989: Family and Friends Care, Family Rights Group, Initial Family and Friends Care Assessment and Looking After Someone Else's Child. Please fully re-reference.
Protocol for Single Assessments (agreed with Southwark Safeguarding Children Board)	This chapter has been revised to reflect updated guidance on Assessment in Working Together to Safeguard Children. Additionally a note has been added to reflect the issues around working with parents who have learning difficulty (see The Single Assessment process).
Care and Supervision Proceedings and the Public Law Outline	This chapter has been updated to provide some emphasis on parents who lack capacity and added links to the President of the Family Division, Family Proceedings: Parents with a Learning Disability note, and a relevant link to working with parents who have a learning disability, (see Pre-proceedings) and Practice Direction 3aa - Vulnerable Persons: Participation in Proceedings and Giving Evidence) see case management in Section 4, Documentation). In Related Guidance a link was added to Research in Practice supporting information and guidance on the Social Work Evidence template (SWET). Also, Section 4.2, Case Analysis has been updated to reflect the ‘permanence provisions’ of the Care Plan added by s. 8 Children and Social Work Act 2017 (amending section 31(3B) Children Act 1989) which a court is required to consider when deciding whether to make a Care Order. Please re-reference.
Action to be Taken in the event of the Death of or Serious Injury to a Child or Other Critical Incidents	This chapter has been amended to reflect that from 29 June 2018 local authorities in England must notify the national Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel within 5 working days of becoming aware of a serious incident.
Access to Records / Subject Access Requests Guidance	This chapter has been substantially amended, updated and re-titled to reflect the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and Data Protection Act 2018. Please reference.
Child in Need Plans and Reviews	This chapter has been updated by adding a new Section Moving to Another Authority. Information and communication is important between the respective local authorities to ensure appropriate services continue for the child and family and, where relevant, any risk of harm is recognised and identified with the receiving local authority. It should be noted that the responsibility for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the child lies with the local authority where the child is to be found.
Children's Consultation and Participation	This chapter has been amended to reflect Working Together to Safeguard Children 2018.
Decision to Look After and Care Planning	Additional information has been added in to Section 1.3, Section 20 Accommodation, in line with recent case-law. Also, in section 2.1.1 The Care Plan – Contents was amended to reflect the additional ‘permanence provisions’ of the Care Plan (s. 8 Children and Social Work Act 2017 amends section 31(3B) Children Act 1989) which a court is required to consider when deciding whether to make a Care Order.
Ceasing to Look After a Child	This chapter has been updated in line with the Children and Social Work Act 2017 and revised statutory guidance. These changes relate to the status of ‘previously Looked After Children’. A previously Looked After Child is one who is no longer looked after in England and Wales because they are the subject of an Adoption, Special Guardianship or Child Arrangements Order which includes arrangements relating to with whom the child is to live, or when the child is to live with any person, or has been adopted from ‘state care’ outside England and Wales. Previously Looked After Children are entitled to support from their school through the Designated Teacher (see Section 2.5, Children Who Move into Permanency).
Permanence Fostering Procedure	It is intended that a long-term fostering placement will last throughout childhood and into adulthood, including Staying Put, as appropriate for that young person. 'Long-term fostering' as a term will be restricted to care planning for permanence. This chapter describes and explores the process of achieving long-term foster care planning children where other forms of permanency are not appropriate or available. It can include placements where children are already placed. Please reference.
Placements in Secure Accommodation	This chapter has been updated to fully reflect the updated guidance ‘Secure children’s homes: how to place a child aged under 13 (July 2018)’. (See Placements of Children under the age of 13 Years). Please re-reference.
Out of Area Placements	This chapter has been updated to add a link to ‘Briefing: Approving Placements of Children Looked After at a Distance & Process’, (see Local Guidance). Please reference.
Looked After Reviews	Section 9, The Role of the Looked After Review in Achieving Permanence for the Child has been amended to reflect the outcome of a High Court Judgement in respect of children who were subject to Section 20 and where there were concerns of significant delays in their planning for permanence. The court noted the IROs’ recognition and action over a number of reviews but acknowledged that a more robust response had been needed.
Education of Looked After Children	This chapter has been comprehensively updated in line with the Children and Social Work Act 2017, Keeping Children Safe in Education (2018) and Information Sharing 2017. In addition a number of relevant links have been added, including ‘Working Together to Safeguard Children’ and ‘GOV.UK, The national protocol on reducing unnecessary criminalisation of looked-after children and care leavers’, (see Scope Box). Please fully re-reference.
Assessment and Approval of Foster Carers	Section 8, After the Panel Recommendation has been updated to clarify the decision as to the suitability of the applicant must be made within 7 working days of receipt of the panel’s recommendation and final set of panel minutes – The Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations Volume 4 and Standard 14 (14.9) Fostering panels and the fostering service’s decision-maker.
Health Care Assessments and Health Care Plans	A new Section 3.2, Consent to Health Care Assessments has been added.
Placement for Adoption	Section 1, Planning for Permanence has been updated to reflect the additional consideration, (added by section 9 Children and Social Work Act 2017 amends section 1(4)(f) of the Adoption and Children Act 2002) into the list of considerations that whenever a court or adoption agency is coming to a decision relating to the adoption of a child), of the relationship which the child has with relatives, with any person who is a prospective adopter with whom the child is placed and with any other person in relation to whom the court or agency considers the relationship to be relevant.
Adoption Panel	This guidance has been reviewed and updated following the introduction of the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and Data Protection Act 2018.
Fostering for Adoption, Concurrent Planning and Temporary Approval as Foster Carers of Approved Prospective Adopters (Early Permanence)	Section 4.1 Duty to Consider Fostering for Adoption Placement has been updated to reflect the additional consideration (added by section 9 Children and Social Work Act 2017 into the list of considerations whenever a court or adoption agency is coming to a decision relating to the adoption of a child), of the relationship which the child has with relatives, with any person who is a prospective adopter with whom the child is placed and with any other person in relation to whom the court or agency considers the relationship to be relevant.
Relinquished Children	Section 5, Consent and Competency has been updated to include additional information on parental capacity to consent, in line with High Court case-law.
Adoption Case Records	Section 3, Security Retention and Sharing of Records has been updated in line with Adoption and Care Planning (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2018, which provides that an adoption agency may disclose an adoption case record to another adoption agency for purposes related to either agency’s functions as an adoption agency. Further information has been added in relation to adoption records where an Adoption Order is not made.
Adoption Support Services	This chapter has been updated in line with the Children and Social Work Act 2017 and revised statutory guidance which require schools, through the Designated Teacher for Looked After Children, to offer support to previously looked after children. A previously looked-after child is one who is no longer looked after in England and Wales because subject of an Adoption, Special Guardianship or Child Arrangements Order which includes arrangements relating to with whom the child is to live, or when the child is to live with any person, or has been adopted from ‘state care’ outside England and Wales).
Adoption Reviews	Section 5, The Conduct of Adoption Reviews (bullet point 1.f) has been amended to reflect the status of adopted children as being ‘previously looked after’ when considering their educational needs. A link to DfE guidance on Promoting the Education of Looked After and Previously Looked After children has also been added.
Applications for Special Guardianship	This chapter has been updated in line with the Children and Social Work Act 2017 and revised statutory guidance which require schools, through the designated teacher, to provide support to previously Looked After Children. A previously Looked After Child is one who is no longer looked after in England and Wales because they are the subject of an Adoption, Special Guardianship or Child Arrangements Order which includes arrangements relating to with whom the child is to live, or when the child is to live with any person, or has been adopted from ‘state care’ outside England and Wales. It has also been updated to reflect the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman good practice points to follow when working with Special Guardians. A link to the full report ‘Firm Foundations: Complaints about Council Support and Advice for Special Guardians (Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman) (May 2018)’ has been added into the Relevant National Guidance section of this chapter.
Social Worker Visits	This chapter has been revised to set out more clearly the circumstances where visiting requirements differ (the Exceptions) from those as set out in 'Normal Frequency'.
Case Records for Looked After Children	Section 1, The Case Record has been updated in line with Adoption and Care Planning (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2018, which permits the transfer of a copy of the child’s case record (or part of that record) to another adoption agency when the local authority considers this to be in the interests of the child.
Permanence Planning	This chapter has been updated in line with the Children and Social Work Act 2017 and revised statutory guidance. These changes relate to the status of ‘previously looked after children’. A previously Looked After Child is one who is no longer looked after in England and Wales because they are the subject of an Adoption, Special Guardianship or Child Arrangements Order which includes arrangements relating to with whom the child is to live, or when the child is to live with any person, or has been adopted from ‘state care’ outside England and Wales. Children subject to Adoption, Special Guardianship or Child Arrangements Order are entitled to support from their school, through the designated teacher. Section 5, Assessing and Planning for Permanence, has been updated to reflect the additional ‘permanence provisions’ of the Care Plan (under s.8 Children and Social Work Act 2017 amends section 31(3B) Children Act 1989) which a court is required to consider when deciding whether to make a Care Order.
Protocol regarding the Management of 16 and 17 year old Young People who may be Homeless or require Accommodation	The Protocol was agreed in September 2011. It has been updated by tri.x by adding Links to Homelessness Duty to Refer Guidance and Homelessness Code of Guidance for Local Authorities (GOV.UK, 2018). Please reference.
New Chapters
Chapter Name	Details
Later Life Letters	The later life letter is written by child's social worker, and will be given to child when they are considered old enough by their adoptive parent(s). It is an expanded version of the Life Story Books Guidance and gives more detail of the child's history and the decision making process.
Life Story Books Guidance	Good preparation for adoption and good life story work contribute towards a successful adoptive placements. The Life Story Book provides an accessible and child-friendly explanation for the child of how they have comes to be where they are today. This chapter explains the importance of the Life Story Book for adoptive children, and provides guidance on for social workers on what to include in the life story book. All children with a plan for adoption must have a Life Story Book.
Deprivation of Liberty	This is a live tri.x resource that will be updated in light of amendments in the law and practice. This chapter applies to all social care practitioners carrying out any social care function with children who are receiving care or treatment in any setting. The level of deprivation is not comparable to the level of restriction normally placed on child or young person of that age, or in all circumstances the child is over 12, and constitutes a breach of Article 5 of the Human Rights Act.
Mental Capacity	This resource seeks to support practitioners working in statutory social care and provider services to understand the Act and practice confidently when supporting young people to make decisions, assessing mental capacity and applying the Best Interests principle. This is a LIVE online resource; updated by tri.x as and when it needs to be in response to changes in legislation, case law and best practice. Please reference when required.

Next update: September 2019

Archive

2018 Amendments

September 2018

Updated Chapters
Chapter Name	Details
Quality Assurance Framework Children & Family Services	This chapter has been comprehensively amended. It seeks to describe a flexible framework setting out quality and assurance practice for use by senior managers and frontline staff working with children and families. The chapter advises of the Comprehensive Audit Plan for 2018/18; highlights Priority Work and includes the Single Case Audit Reflection Sheet.
Thresholds for Children’s Social Care Safeguarding Services	This chapter has been updated to reflect current the terminology and structure of the Department. The Section 5, Early Help was fully refreshed and updated acknowledging the Early Help Localities Services (EHLS) and Specialist Family Focus Team (SFFT). The chapter contains an updated Early Help Referral Form, (see Appendix 2: Early Help Referral Form), and links to the revised Southwark SCB Thresholds.
Child Protection Conferences Including Standards for Conferences	This chapter has been amended to ensure it reflects the current organisational structure and decision-making processes.
Representations, Complaints and Claims Procedure	This chapter has been significantly amended following publication of a new Children’s Services Complaints Policy, and new Southwark Website Content. Please reference.
Southwark Safeguarding Children Board Protocol for Children at Risk of Sexual Exploitation	This chapter has been comprehensively amended by linking to the revised Southwark SCB chapter on Child Sexual Exploitation; updating the Appendix 1: Southwark CSE Flow Chart and adding further Appendices: Appendix 4: Child Sexual Exploitation Warning Signs – ‘SAFEGUARD’; Appendix 5: Types of Sexual Exploitation and Appendix 6: Initial CSE strategy discussion.
Children Missing Education Protocol	This chapter was amended to update the material regarding a child missing school (see Section 2, Identifying and Tracking Children Missing Education) and when a child changes school (see Section 1.3, School Responsibilities). (Note there are two forms for missing education based on whether it is thought a child is on a school’s roll or does not have a school - but should be receiving education). Note also key statutory education guidance has been updated; current links continue to go to these documents.
Looked After Reviews	This chapter has been amended to reflect current the terminology and structure of the Department. Also to note that the Team Manager should review the CLA Review record or Pathway Plan review record and sign it off with comments within 5 working days of receipt; the QAU Service Support officer is responsible for distribution of the LAC review record to the professional network and the allocated social worker is responsible for sharing the review records and decisions with the child and their parents. (See Section 12, Recording of Looked After Reviews).
Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children	The chapter has been updated to reflect current the terminology and structure of the Department; amend Section 3, ‘Assessment’ with regard to in advance of undertaking an age assessment for an unaccompanied asylum seeking child, local authorities must seek Home Office assistance with verifying the authenticity of identity documents e.g. travel documents or a birth certificate. A link to the relevant contact details for local authorities was added. Additionally, a new section ‘When Asylum Seekers go Missing after Age 18 to Avoid Deportation’ was added to assist in dealing with this issue.
Local Contacts	This chapter has been updated.
Designated Managers	This chapter has been updated.
New Chapters
Chapter Name	Details
Working with Children Subject of Supervision Orders	This chapter details the parameters of Supervision Orders and identifies they are the outcome of Care Proceedings, enabling the local authority to ‘advise, assist and befriend’ a young person made subject of one. Additionally, there can be conditions placed on the child which are directed by the court. Children subject to Supervision Orders in Southwark are identified as Children in Need and Departmental processes around this should be followed. As most Supervision Orders last 12 month, it is important that a final review is undertaken after 9 months, (3 months if the Order is a 6 month Order), to identify whether the matter is to be (exceptionally) returned to Court. Where children also have Child Protection Plans, then these processes and procedures should be retained and integrated into the Order’s ‘reviewing process’ – but of course are not themselves conditional to Court Order processes as such. Please Reference.
Supporting Care Leavers Through to 25	This chapter has been substantially amended to reflect the Children and Social Work Act 2017 on the Leaving Care Services and Care leavers. Particularly: The Local Offer - all local authorities must publish up-date information about the services it offers for care leavers and other services which may assist care leavers in, or preparing for, adulthood and independent living; Corporate parenting: the Children and Social Work Act 2017 establishes 7 Corporate Parenting Principles, which should include and involve not only the Local Authority providing Children’s Social Care services, but also District Councils (where appropriate) and partner agencies; Continuing Support Up to the Age of 25: all Care leavers between the ages of 21 and up to 25 will be entitled to support irrespective of whether they are in education or training. Even when they may not initially choose such support, they can return and seek support, which can be provided on specific issues or on a more comprehensive basis where this is needed. Please Reference.
Unaccompanied Migrant Children and Child Victims of Trafficking and Modern Slavery	The chapter has been developed to reflect the ‘Care of Unaccompanied Migrant Children and Child Victims of Modern Slavery - Statutory Guidance for Local Authorities (2017)’ – which itself replaced statutory Guidance of 2014 regarding Unaccompanied asylum Seeing children. The chapter contains a link to the updated statutory Guidance. Please Reference.

March 2018

Updated Chapters
Chapter Name	Details
Contacts and Referrals	This chapter has been updated to reflect that when seeking to share information with other agencies, due consideration should be given to the statutory guidance in Information sharing advice for safeguarding practitioners, (see Section 3, Management Action). The update also includes updated MASH and Early Help referral forms, (see Section 1, Contacts and Referrals).
Southwark Safeguarding Children Board Protocol for Children at Risk of Sexual Exploitation	This chapter has been amended to include a link to the London Child Sexual Exploitation Operating Protocol. (See Relevant Guidance). Note however that the Southwark Safeguarding Children Board Protocol for Children at Risk of Sexual Exploitation is currently under review.
Private Fostering	This chapter has been amended to include the Private Fostering Statement of Purpose.
Family Group Conferences	This chapter has been comprehensively updated to reflect the Family Rights Group accreditation and Standards processes for family group conferences. The chapter includes details of the Standards, (see Relevant Guidance), and describes the 3 elements of the process: Information Giving, Private Family Time and Presenting/Agreeing the Family Plan. The chapter also includes the Referral Form and template referrer report, (see Appendix 1: Family Goup Conference Referral Form and Appendix 2: Referrer/Social Work Report for Family Group Conference).
Placement with Parents	This chapter has been updated to reflect that the DBS has no eligibility for a standard or enhanced check for birth parents or other adults living in the household. However, the Local Authority has a requirement under the Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (England Regulations) 2010 to obtain information about unspent convictions and cautions before placing a child back with parents. (See Section 1.2, Assessment and Checks before Placement). Also to acknowledge the Care Plan should include support to the child together with possible theraputic /counselling interventions to support the placement. (See Section 1.4, Relevant Plans).
Looked After Reviews	This chapter has been amended to fully reflect the Volume 2: care planning, placement and case review guidance and regulation with respect to the circumstances as to when a Looked After Review should be brought forward. The list is not exhaustive. (See Section 2, Frequency of Looked After Reviews).
Health Care Assessments and Health Care Plans	This chapter has been updated to add a link to NICE guidance Children’s attachment: attachment in children and young people who are adopted from care, in care or at high risk of going into care, NG26. This guideline covers the identification, assessment and treatment of attachment difficulties in children and young people up to age 18 who are adopted from care, in special guardianship, looked after by local authorities in foster homes (including kinship foster care), residential settings and other accommodation, or on the edge of care. It aims to address the many emotional and psychological needs of children and young people in these situations, including those resulting from maltreatment.
Placement for Adoption	This chapter has been amended to emphasise ‘procedural fairness’ as a key aspect of the adoption planning process in respect of ensuring parents are provided with information throughout, including the dates of placement/proposed changes of a child’s Status, etc. This follows the outcome of a judicial review ([2017] EWHC 1041 (Admin)). (See new Section 4.2, Procedural Fairness).
Applications for Special Guardianship	This chapter has been further amended and re-drafted particularly with regard to Section 2, Who may Apply?
Looked After Children Who have their Own Funds	This chapter has been amended to add a link to ‘DfE, Junior individual saving accounts for looked after children – Statutory guidance for local authorities’ (see Relevant Guidance) and to acknowledge that the maximum that can be saved in a Junior ISA from April 2018 is £4260 pa. (see Section 3.3, Who can pay money into Junior ISAs?).
Change of Name	This chapter has been significantly changed and now provides information on a change of name by Deed Poll. (See Section 2, Changing a Name with the Agreement of those with Parental Responsibility).
Children and Young People Aged 0 - 25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities	This chapter has been updated to add links to: DoH&SC, Guidance – SEND resources for healthcare professionals (2016) and Carers Trust Professionals, Young Carers Assessment Tools.
Children with Disabilities	This chapter has been updated to add Statutory visits to children with special educational needs and disabilities or health conditions in long-term residential settings - Statutory guidance for local authorities, health bodies and health or educational establishments, (DfE/DoH, November 2017). (See Related Guidance).
Young Carers	This chapter has been extensively revised with regard to providing guidance on identifying and supporting young carers. Since April 2015, local authorities have had a duty to take 'reasonable steps' to identify children in their area who are young carers, and to determine if they need support. Local authorities must carry out an assessment whenever it appears that a young carer has a need for support (this could be either in their capacity as a young carer or in a more general sense as a child or young person). This assessment is called a Young Carer’s Needs Assessment. A link to IMAGO Southwark Young carers has also been added in ‘Local information’.
Unaccompanied Asylum Seekers	This chapter has been updated to provide a link to NRPF network, Securing British Citizenship for looked after children (Project for Registration of Children as British Citizens). Note also the updated statutory guidance ‘Care of unaccompanied migrant children and child victims of modern slavery Statutory guidance for local authorities (DfE, November 2017)’.
Children Living Away From Home (Children Act 1989 Section 85) Procedure	This chapter has been updated to add Statutory visits to children with special educational needs and disabilities or health conditions in long-term residential settings Statutory guidance for local authorities, health bodies and health or educational establishments, (DfE/DoH, November 2017). (See Related Guidance).

2017 Amendments

September 2017

Updated Chapters
Chapter Name	Details
Foreword and Introduction	This chapter has been reviewed and amended.
Thresholds for Children’s Social Care Safeguarding Services	This chapter has been amended, in particular to add a new Appendix 1: MASH Interagency Referral Form and Appendix 4: Early Years Contacts information. The referral processes have also been updated to reflect current procedures with regard to early help.
Contacts and Referrals	This chapter has been updated to reflect the amended Threshold and MASH Team procedures.
Pre-Birth Assessment Procedure	This chapter has been updated to reflect the updated MASH and Thresholds to Children’s Safeguarding Service. (See Section 4, Initial Contact Stage).
Assessment of the Needs of Disabled Parents and Their Children (Young Carers) - Children's Social Care and Adult Assessment Services - Interim Joint Protocol	This chapter has been significantly amended to include the role of the single assessment, including the timescales identified by Working Together to Safeguard Children (2015).
Action to be Taken in the event of the Death of or Serious Injury to a Child or Other Critical Incidents	This chapter has been updated in line with the requirement to notify Ofsted of any serious childcare incident using the Ofsted Notification Form for Serious Childcare Incidents.
Southwark Safeguarding Children Board Protocol for Children at Risk of Sexual Exploitation	This chapter has been amended to update the CSE Risk Screening Tool and Guidance (see Appendices) and to add links to 'DfE, Child sexual exploitation: definition and guide for practitioners (2017)' and 'London Child Protection Procedures, Safeguarding Children from Sexual Exploitation'.
Activities and Transporting Children	This chapter has been updated to reflect changes to the laws around booster seats and babies who now need to stay in rear facing seats until 15 months. (See Section 4, Transport Arrangements – General).
Private Fostering	This chapter has been amended to add clarity to the definition of private fostering with regards to the legislation and children under 16 who spend more than 2 weeks in residence during holiday time in a school.
Decision to Look After and Care Planning	This chapter has been amended to reflect the outcome of an Appeal Court hearing (2017) with respect to ‘consent’. The court recognised that the term ‘consent’ itself was not used in Section 20. However, it described previous court observations as ‘good practice guidance’, emphasizing its judgment should not alter the content or effect of these. (See Section 1.3.1, Obtaining Parental Consent). The chapter also contains links to two forms; Appendix 1: Section 20 Agreement between Southwark Council and Parents and Appendix 2: Section 20 Certification Upon Obtaining Section 20 Form.
Guidance to Accommodating Children under Section 20 Children Act 1989	This chapter has been updated to add a new Appendix 2: Section 20 Certification Upon Obtaining Section 20 Form, (a checklist for social workers accommodating children under Section 20 (Children Act 1989)).
Placements in Secure Accommodation on Welfare Grounds	This chapter has been significantly updated and now includes new/enhanced sections on 'Applications for Secure Accommodation'; 'Children to Whom Section 25 Applies', (including the issues of children aged 16 years and Section 20 Accommodation); 'Placements for Children aged under 13 years' and 'Support, Monitoring and Ending of Placements' etc. The chapter has also been re-titled to reflect its (original) content and purpose (that of applications for children on 'welfare grounds'), thereby distinguishing it from the 'Remands to Local Authority Accommodation, etc.' (LASPO Act 2012). The chapter also details the Southwark Threshold of Secure meeting. (See Section 5.2, Threshold of Secure Meeting)
Placement with Parents	Section 1.2, Assessment and Checks before Placement has been updated to include consideration should be given as to whether the home environment is safe for the child including where relevant, the need for a risk assessment of any pets and the environment in which they are kept.
Placements with Friends and Family Foster Carers (also known as Connected Persons carers)	This chapter has been amended to note that consideration of any pets and the environment in which they are kept, should be undertaken when completing an initial assessment of a Connected Person. (See Section 2, Emergency Placements (Regulation 24, Care Planning, Placement and Case Review Regulations (2010)).
Appointment and Role of Independent Reviewing Officers	This chapter has been updated in relation to the role of the Independent Reviewing Officer in line with the 'Children Act 1989 guidance and regulations - Volume 2: care planning, placement and case review, June 2015'. In particular, the IRO being sensitive to the close and active involvement of parents of a child looked after in a series of Short Breaks and problem-solving where there might be difficulties or issues.
Education of Looked After Children	This chapter has been updated to reflect the current organisation structure of the virtual school and to detail more the role of The Virtual Headteacher. (See Section 5, The Role of the Virtual School).
Role and Responsibilities of the Virtual Headteacher	This chapter has been amended to reflect updated organisational terminology with regard to the Virtual School and its Head.
Supervision and Support of Foster Carers	Section 6, Support Provided by the Supervising Social Worker (During Placement) has been updated to reflect that the Safer Caring Plan, any changes in household circumstances along with any health and safety issues including the addition of any new pets and the environment in which they are kept should be reviewed as required.
Placement for Adoption	This chapter has been updated by adding a link to – research in practice, Contact after adoption, (see Related Guidance).
Assessment and Approval of Prospective Adoptive Parents	Section 5.3, Assessment has been updated to include where the applicants have pets, a risk assessment should be conducted and any associated risks should be taken into account with regard to the pet itself and where the pet is kept. Where necessary, an independent assessment should be undertaken by a vet to establish whether the dog falls within the scope of the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. The chapter has also been updated to reflect current organisations / links, e.g. Adoption Match (see Section 9, After the Panel Recommendation).
Inter Country Adoption	This chapter has been updated by amending Section 11, After Approval. After Approval information has been added on the Intercountry Adoption Forms: checklist for adoption which details the paperwork adoption agencies must include in the inter-country adoption applications they submit to the Department for Education. In addition, a link to ‘Adopting a child from overseas (GOV.UK)’ has been added. (See Relevant Guidance).
Applications for Special Guardianship	This chapter has been substantially revised throughout to reflect the most recent national 'Special Guardianship Guidance (January 2017)' - see Related Guidance.
Advocacy and Independent Visitors	This chapter has been amended to update the contact for the advocacy contact details. (See Section 2.1, When to Appoint). A link has also been added to The Children’s Society, ‘Advocacy Services for Children and Young People – A Guide for Commissioners’ (see Related Guidance).
Case Records for Looked After Children	This chapter has been reviewed to note the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse requires all institutions to retain their records relating to the care of children for the duration of the Inquiry (see Section 2, Retention and Confidentiality of Records).
Education of Looked After Children	This chapter has been updated to reflect the current structure and terminology within Southwark and also to revise national standards and attainments, (see Appendix 1: Understanding the Education System).
Children and Young People Aged 0 - 25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities	This chapter has been updated to reflect the outcome of a court judgement on Ordinary Residence that was included in DoH, Care and support statutory guidance (December 2016). (See Section 12, Funding Issues - Ordinary Residence). A link has been added into Related Guidance to guidance on SEND: 19 to 25 year olds’ entitlement to EHC plans (DfE 2017).
IRO Escalation Process	This chapter has been amended to more fully acknowledge and reflect the IRO escalation process and identify ten criteria for escalating a child’s circumstances or review process, (see Section 2, Criteria for IRO Escalation). The chapter also includes an Appendix 1: IRO Escalation Form.
Local Contacts	These details have been updated.
New Chapters and Features
Chapter Name	Details
Children's Consultation and Participation	Working Together 2015 states clearly that one of the key principles underpinning safeguarding should be: ‘’a child-centred approach: for services to be effective they should be based on a clear understanding of the needs and views of children.’’ It is essential therefore that children and young people are enabled by professionals to participate in matters that affect them, particularly any plans or arrangements that will affect them and/or their family and are consulted with regard to processes designed to improve services both to them individually and more generally. Please reference.
Southwark Virtual School - Educational Placement Protocol	This protocol is written in order to ensure consistency of practice across the Virtual School and in liaison with Social Work teams responsible for arranging care placements. It is hoped that, in developing and sharing key principles relating to education placement, earlier and more strategic involvement of the Virtual School can avoid placement in inadequate or otherwise inappropriate schools or Alternative Provision placements. Please note a young person who is Looked After by Southwark will never be placed in a grade 4 school.

March 2017

Updated Chapters
Chapter Name	Details
Protocol for Single Assessments (agreed with Southwark Safeguarding Children Board)	This chapter has been updated to reference the concern of Modern Slavery and the National Reporting Mechanism, (see Section 1, Background). A link to Home Office Circular: Modern Slavery Act 2015; Modern Slavery Act 2015 and GOV.UK, Modern Slavery: duty to Notify - Promotional material (2016) are provided in Relevant Guidance. Additionally, a link is provided to the International Child Abduction and Contact Unit (ICACU) which itself contains a link to GOV.UK, ICACU: request for co-operation form and guidance.
Care and Supervision Proceedings and the Public Law Outline	This chapter has been updated to reflect the outcome of a judgment following an application to remove a child at birth. The judge highlighted what were thought to be ‘good practice steps’ to issuing care proceedings in respect of the removal of a child at birth. (See Section 3.1, Pre-birth Planning and Proceedings).
Pre-Birth Assessment Procedure	This chapter has been updated to identify a judgement with respect to ‘good practice steps’, (See Section 8, Public Law Outline).
Whistleblowing Policy and Procedure	This chapter has been updated to add a link to Ofsted, Whistleblowing about children's social care services to Ofsted (2016). Please re-reference.
Southwark Safeguarding Children Board Protocol for Children at Risk of Sexual Exploitation	This chapter has been amended to update the Southwark LSCB Protocol – particularly Section 7, Responding to a Concern about a child/young person and CSE and Section 9, Partnership Governance and Oversight.
Safeguarding Foreign National Children Who Go Missing	This chapter has been updated by updating the link to the International Child Abduction and Contact Unit (ICACU) - which itself not contains a link to GOV.UK, ICACU: request for co-operation form and guidance.
Storage of Records	This chapter has been significantly updated to acknowledge the requirements of the Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse to retain files whilst the Inquiry is sitting or unless otherwise advised by it. (See Section 2, Current Position Adults Health and Social Care and Children's).
HIV and AIDS	This chapter has been updated by adding a link to 'NCB/Hamblin, Practice Guidance: supporting young people with HIV testing and prevention (2016)'.
Child in Need Plans and Reviews	This chapter has been comprehensively updated to reflect organisational changes and practices and to ensure that children in need in Southwark reflect the definitions provided by The Southwark LSCB (see Section 1, Children in Need).
Guidance to Accommodating Children under Section 20 Children Act 1989	This chapter has been updated to add a link to ‘Community Care Inform: Section 20: putting the guidance from case law into practice (Nov. 2015)’; Certification by social worker upon obtaining S20 consent and Model (see Section 4, Social Work Decision Making) Section 20 agreement. (See Appendix 1: Model Section 20 Agreement). The Certification of the social worker upon receiving Consent should be saved in ‘Carestore’.
Placements in Secure Accommodation	This chapter has been updated to acknowledge the President of the High Court’s judgment regarding applications in English courts for Secure Accommodation placements in Scotland. (See Section 4.1, Identification of Placement).
Mother and Baby Foster Placements	This chapter has been updated by adding a link to 'NICE, Postnatal care up to 8 weeks after birth, (2015)'.
Looked After Reviews	This chapter has been updated to note The Law Society guidance ‘Attendance of solicitors at local authority Children Act Meetings’ and their Code of Conduct where the child or family who attend reviews are supported by a legal representative. (See Section 9, Chair’s Responsibilities). In addition the Quality Standards for Looked After Reviews have been included, see Appendix 1, Quality Standards for Looked After Reviews.
Notifications of Significant Events	This chapter has been updated by replacing the link to Schedule 7 Events and Notifications Table, which now links directly to The Fostering Services (England) Regulations 2011 legislation.
Health Care Assessments and Health Care Plans	This chapter has been updated by adding a link to BMA Consent Toolkit.
Inter Country Adoption	This chapter has been updated by adding a link to Mott Macdonald / DfE, Adoption Support Fund for information and guidance.
Adoption Support Services	This chapter has been updated by adding a link to Mott Macdonald / DfE, Adoption Support Fund for information and guidance.
Applications for Special Guardianship	This chapter has been updated to add the DfE Special Guardianship Guidance (2016) and to confirm that the special guardian will have the ability to exercise parental responsibility without seeking permission from the parents, (see Section 1, Introduction). Additional material was added also in Section 2, Who May Apply?. A link to Mott Macdonald/DfE, Adoption Support Fund has also been added for information and guidance.
Staying Put: Financial Requirements and Personal Benefits for Young People	This chapter has been updated by adding a link to: Catch22/NCAS, Staying Put: What does it mean for you? (2014).
Education of Looked After Children	This chapter has been updated by adding a link to DfE, Mental health and behaviour in schools (2016).
Children and Young People Aged 0 - 25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities	This chapter has been updated by adding a link to 'DfE / DoH, 0 to 25 SEND code of practice: a guide for health professionals - Advice for clinical commissioning groups, health professionals and local authorities, (2016)' and 'DoH, Children and young people's continuing care national framework (2016)'.
Young Carers	This chapter has been updated to amend and clarify the definition under the Children and Families Act (2014), (see Section 1, Definition).
Unaccompanied Asylum Seekers	This chapter has been fully updated to reflect current the approach and local processes in Southwark to Unaccompanied Asylum Seekers. The chapter also acknowledges the concerns with respect to ‘Modern Slavery’ which can be a part of trafficking and adds the Home Office Circular on Modern Slavery. A link to NRPF Connect has also been added.
Protocol between Children's Services and Youth Offending Service	This chapter has been updated by adding a link to Home Office, Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) codes of practice (2016). In particular the amended Code requires that an Appropriate Adult is now provided for children under 18 years (10-17 years inclusive) whereas previously it was for children up to the age of 16 years.
Protocol between Independent Reviewing Officers and Managers	This chapter has been updated to reference the re-titled and amended IRO Escalation Process.
IRO Escalation Process	This chapter has been updated to reflect that the escalation process is undertaken electronically via Mosaic - if the informal and local discussion has not improved to be effective in achieving ‘improvements’. A link to Southwark’s Quality Standards for Looked After Reviews has also been included, (see Section 1, Background).
Joint Service Protocol to meet the Needs of Children and Unborn Children whose Parents or Carers have Substance Misuse Problems	This chapter has been updated and amended and now reflects current thinking and the organisational structure and detail of the Department and partner agencies. Please re-reference.
Joint Service Protocol to meet the Needs of Children and Unborn Children whose Parents have Disabilities	This chapter has been updated and amended and now reflects current thinking and the organisational structure and detail of the Department and partner agencies. Please re-reference.
Joint Service Protocol to meet the Needs of Children and Unborn Children whose Parents or Carers have Mental Health Problems	This chapter has been updated and amended and now reflects current thinking and the organisational structure and detail of the Department and partner agencies. Please re-reference.
Local Contacts	These details have been updated.
New Chapters and Features
Chapter Name	Details
Legal Planning Meetings and Care Proceedings in Southwark: Practice Guidance	This comprehensive guidance replaces the previous content and was last updated by Southwark Legal Operations Group (SLOG) led by the Assistant Director of Safeguarding. It explains the purpose and process to follow when presenting a case to Legal Planning Meeting and provides links to supporting guidance prepared and agreed by the South London Care Proceedings Project for social work in public law care proceedings. The chapter contains a number of relevant practice guides and links to supporting documents, (see Documents Referred to in this Guidance). Please re-reference.
Relinquished Children	The term 'relinquished child' is used to describe a child, usually a baby or at pre-birth stage, whose parents are making the choice of adoption for the child. This chapter deals with the first stages of the adoption process for relinquished children, whilst signposting other key processes that should be progressed and which are expected for any child who is Accommodated or where the plan is for adoption. It also summarises the counselling and support that will be made available to the birth family in these circumstances. Once a decision is made and consent is formally given, although not irreversible, the adoption process is as for any other child. This chapter should be read in conjunction with the Related Chapters.

2016 Amendments

September 2016

Updated Chapters
Chapter Name	Details
Foreword and Introduction	This chapter has been reviewed and amended.
Child Protection Conferences Including Standards for Conferences	This chapter has been comprehensively amended to reflect working the ‘Signs of Safety’ model. The chapter now also includes Section 8, Child Protection Chair Escalation of Concerns, with links to ‘Child Protection Chair’s Representation Process to Escalate Concerns Relating to Practice or Outcomes for Children’ and ‘Quality standards for CP conferences for all professionals’. Additional appendices have been added: Appendix 1: Agenda for Child Protection Conferences; Appendix 2: Criteria for a Child to be Subject to a Child Protection Plan and Appendix 3: Child Protection Conference Feedback Form.
Initiating Care Proceedings	This chapter has been updated to add links to: a letter from HM Courts & Tribunals Service with regard to out-of-hours applications for EPOs; Min of Justice, Practice Direction 12A - Care, Supervision and Other Part 4 Proceedings: Guide to Case Management (2014) and DfE, Court orders and pre-proceedings for local authorities (2014). Please reference as required.
Care and Supervision Proceedings and the Public Law Outline	This chapter has been updated to include a link to the updated The ADCS Social Work Evidence website and link to a letter from HM Courts & Tribunals Service with regard to out-of-hours applications for EPOs. Please reference when required.
Monitoring Visits to Children Subject to a Child Protection Plan	This chapter has been updated throughout to reflect the current organisational structure and to add two new sections, Section 7, Changes to Frequency of Visits between Child Protection Conferences and Section 8, Visiting When Step Down from CP Plan to CIN Plan. These two new sections identify the need to discuss with the manager and Conference chair where a reduction in visiting can take place. Any such actions should be taken on a graduated basis and, where the child(ren) remain with a Child Protection Plan, the minimum visiting will be 4 weekly.
Southwark Safeguarding Children Board Protocol for Children at Risk of Sexual Exploitation	This chapter has been amended and contains links to the updated Southwark Safeguarding Boards Protocol for Child Sexual Exploitation, with three Appendices to include the Appendix 1: Southwark CSE Process Map and Appendix 2: Southwark CSE Risk Screening Tool as well as Appendix 3: Southwark Adapted SIPPS CSE Risk Assessment Worksheet. Please fully re-read.
Children Missing Education Protocol	This chapter has been Reviewed and comprehensively updated. Section 2, Identifying and Tracking Children Missing Education and Section 5, Safeguarding have been fully re drafted with a new Section 1.3, School Responsibilities. A clear association has also been made with child sexual exploitation and the need to be alert to safeguarding issues.
Elective Home Education Protocol	This chapter has been reviewed and comprehensively amended. There are new sections on: Section 2, Notification Process, Section 5, Children with an Education, Health and Care Plan, Section 6, Safeguarding and Home Education, and Section 10, Summary of Responsibilities within Children’s and Adult’s Services. Other sections have been updated in line with organisational changes and practice. A link to the updated Department for Education (2015) Special Educational Needs and Disability Code of Practice: 0 to 25 Years (Children and Young People with SEN Educated at Home) has also been made.
Children Missing from Home	This chapter has been updated. A new Section 2, Risk Screening of Missing Children has been added.
Access to Records Guidance	This chapter has been comprehensively amended to provide updated guidance in respect of the principles and issues around accessing records. The chapter reflects particular issues in respect of who is applying for the access and a link to the Information Commissioner.
Speaker Box - 11 Golden Rules for Professionals	This chapter has been replaced with an updated set of rules for professionals drawn up in May 2016 by the Southwark Children in Care council Speaker Box. All staff in Children’s Social Care should be familiar with the ‘Golden Rules’ and seek to ensure their practice and approach reflect respect for them.
Decision to Look After and Care Planning	This chapter has been amended to add a link to ADCS, Practice Guidance for the Use of Section 20 Provision in The Children Act 1989 in England and the Equivalent Section 76 of the Social Services and Well-Being (Wales) Act 2014 in Wales (see Section 1.3, Section 20 Accommodation). The chapter also links to Southwark’s Guidance to Accommodating Children under Section 20 Children Act 1989.
Placement with Parents	This chapter has been updated and a new Section 3, Children Who Go Missing from Care has been added. Additionally, three template forms have been added in the Appendices: Appendix 1: Placement with Parents Report; Appendix 2: Placement With Parents Agreement form 1 (for child on ICO as part of Care Proceedings); Appendix 3: Placement with Parents – model agreement with parents.
Remand to Local Authority Accommodation or to Youth Detention Accommodation	This chapter has been significantly updated throughout to reflect changes to the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) which defines ‘arrested juvenile’ for the purpose of Part 4 of that Act (detention). The effect of the change is that 17 year olds are included in the definition of ‘arrested juvenile’. The amendments made by Section 42 of the Act came into force on 26th October 2015. Please fully re-read.
Children Missing from Care Procedure	The chapter has been amended to include a new Section 4, Risk Assessment together with updated reporting to senior managers / elected members process (see Section 13, Reporting to Elected Members).
Fostering for Adoption, Concurrent Planning and Temporary Approval as Foster Carers of Approved Prospective Adopters (Early Permanence)	This chapter has been updated to add a note that if there is any change to the circumstances of prospective carers, including relatives, there should be a professionals meeting and the carers should be informed so that they can consider their position as well as the local authority (see Section 4, Fostering for Adoption).
Applications for Special Guardianship	Section 5, Planning Meeting, has been revised and updated to reflect the enhanced assessment and reporting requirements (for all applications made from 29 February 2016) as set out in the Special Guardianship (Amendment) Regulations 2016.
Court Reports in Adoption/Special Guardianship	Section 3, Special Guardianship – Matters to be Dealt with in Report to Court, has been revised and updated to reflect the enhanced assessment and reporting requirements (for all applications made from 29 February 2016 as set out in the Special Guardianship (Amendment) Regulations 2016.
Responsibilities of the Local Authority to Former Looked After Children and Young People in Custody	This chapter has been amended to further reflect the DfE statutory guidance on ‘former looked after children in custody’ and the ‘Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (2015)’.
Southwark Staying Put Policy	This chapter has been reviewed. Minor amendments have been made to some details to bring the chapter up to date.
Telephones, Mobile Phones and Letters	This chapter has been updated to add a link to guidance 'Child Safety Online'.
Advocacy and Independent Visitors	This chapter has been updated to add new sections, Section 1.1, Duties of an Advocate, Section 2.2, Duties of Independent Visitors, and enhanced Section 2.1, When to appoint Independent Visitors.
Permanence Planning	This chapter has been updated to note that a further disadvantage to long-term fostering has been that when the young person reaches 18 yrs the carers have no legal responsibilities for the young person. (See Section 3.7, Long-term Fostering).
Southwark Children’s Services Practice Guidance on Safeguarding Children Exposed to Extremism	This chapter has been amended and the Referral and Section 4, Referral and Assessment Route has been comprehensively revised in line with the present organisational structure and inter agency roles. The amendments also reflect the issues with regard to children being educated at home (see Section 2, Identification) and to placements of children out of the borough where there has been a concern for a child/young person exposed to extremism, (see Section 4, Referral and Assessment Route).
Local Contacts	This has been updated. Please re-reference as required.
New Chapters and Features
Chapter Name	Details
Electronic Recording of Meetings and Conversations	This chapter deals with recording of meetings/conversations by individual service-users, in their capacity as private individuals. Note that the employees of the local authority, acting in their professional capacity, are subject to different legislative requirements, e.g. under the Data Protection Act 1998. This is a developing area, and legal advice must be sought as necessary.
Missing Children – Reporting to Senior Managers	This brief chapter highlights the accountability and line management of all children who go missing with regard to their assessed level of risk. Please ensure familiarity with this process.
Guidance to Accommodating Children under Section 20 Children Act 1989	This chapter reflects the key legal framework in accommodating and removing a child accommodated under Section 20 (1989 Children Act). The chapter provides a useful checklist and model agreement form which should be signed by a parent/person with parental responsibility who is consenting to Accommodation. Care should be taken in ensuring that informed Consent is provided and the person with parental responsibility has appropriate capacity to undertake this. (see Decision to Look After and Care Planning Procedure, Obtaining Parental Consent).
Permanence Fostering Procedure	This new chapter identifies that it is not always possible to provide a ‘legal permanence’ but seeking to give a sense of ‘belonging’, whilst this might prove challenging, remains important if children are to achieve good outcomes for themselves. This chapter emphasises the importance of ‘permanence’ and identifies key planning processes to achieve this. An updated process flow chart is added. This chapter has been introduced into the manual and replaced the previous chapter on Long Term fostering.
Looked After Children and Young People in Contact with Youth Justice Services	This chapter focuses on young people who are thought to have offended and would otherwise be in police custody or who are remanded. Note that whenever the police detain a child or young person (aged 10 to 17), or interview them as a voluntary attender, they must inform an Appropriate Adult as soon as is practicable and ask them to attend. (See Section 2.1, Safeguarding Children and Young People in Police Custody). Please fully read.
Removed Chapters
Ten Golden Rules; Long Term Fostering.

March 2016

Updated Chapters
Chapter Name	Details
Foreword and Introduction	This chapter has been reviewed and amended.
Children's Policies, Values and Principles - Including Recording, Confidentiality and Consultation	This chapter has been comprehensively updated to ensure the values and principles of working with children have been clear and accessible. The values and principles should be reflected in all work undertaken in the Department but the chapter continues to highlight the key areas of recording, confidentiality and consultation. A note in ‘Records must usually be retained after closure’ has been added to advise that whilst The Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse is active, all institutions are to retain their records relating to the care of children for the duration of the Inquiry under Section 21 of the Inquiries Act 2005.
Children Missing from Home	This chapter has been updated to reflect the role of the Merlin Specialist worker within the MASH; a Flow chart identifies the Merlin Specialist Worker’s key processes. Also of St. Christopher’s, which undertakes most return interviews. A number of updates throughout the chapter have been made to reflect the requirements of the statutory guidance on 'Children who run away or go missing from home or care (2014)'.
Physical Interventions	This chapter has been updated in line with the Children’s Homes Regulations including Quality Standards (2015) – in particular ‘restraint’. (See Definition of Physical Interventions and Criteria for using Physical Interventions.)
Decision to Look After and Care Planning	This chapter has been amended to reflect the President of the Family Court Division’s concerns and subsequent guidance with respect to Obtaining Parental Consent the Use of Section 20 Prior to Court Proceedings. Please ensure this is read.
Placements in Foster Care	This chapter has been updated to reflect the DfE, Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations - Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (2015). A new Section 9, Long Term Foster Placements has been added.
Looked After Reviews	This chapter has been updated to reflect the DfE, Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations - Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (2015). A Looked After Review must take place before any significant change is made to the child's Care Plan, unless that is not reasonably practicable, including a decision to cease looking after a child. A new section on Reviews for children in Long term Foster Placements has been provided (see Section 11, Looked After Reviews Concerning Children in Long Term Foster Placements).
Allegations against Foster Carers, Prospective Adopters and Adopters	This chapter has been revised to reflect the role of the Advanced Practitioner. It is acknowledged that where foster carers live outside the London Borough of Southwark, a decision may need to be made as to which local authority deals with the allegation, (and this decision needs to be made in a timely way), but where those carers are from Independent Fostering Agencies, these will be enquiries will be made by the authority in which the foster carers are resident.
Social Worker Visits	This chapter has been updated in line with the DfE, Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations - Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (2015) to reflect the impact of a child’s long term placement. (see Section 1, Normal Frequency).
Case Records for Looked After Children	This chapter has been updated to detail that the child’s Care Plan also includes a health plan and Personal Education Plan. (See Section 1, The Case Record).
Permanence Planning	This chapter has been updated to reflect the DfE, Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations - Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (2015). An updated definition of Permanence (see Defining Permanence) is offered as well as for permanence planning (see Key Objectives in Permanence Planning). A new Section 3.7, Long Term Fostering has also been included.
Planning for Children and Young People: Pathway Plans including Needs Assessment - Practice Guidance	This chapter has been updated to an exemplar for a Pathway Plan incorporating needs assessment (see Appendix 1: Pathway Plan Incorporating Needs Assessment Exemplar). Please reference as required.
Short Breaks	This chapter has been fully updated to bring it in line with the Children and Families Act 2014, DfE, Special Educational Needs and Disability Code of Practice: 0-25 years Statutory Guidance for Organisations who work with Children and Young People with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (2015) and DfE, The Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations - Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (2015). Please re-read as required.
Protocol between Children's Services and Youth Offending Service	This chapter has been updated to reflect operational practice and terminology; in particular Principles of Joint Working and Management of Risk, Young People Appearing in Court - Bail, Remands into Local Authority Accommodation Youth Detention Accommodation. The Youth Offending Service also has duties under the radicalisation ‘prevent’ agenda.
Southwark SCB: Multi-Agency Protocol for Children Missing from Home and Care	This SCB chapter has been updated to reflect the role of the MASH and of MERLIN and identifies that Children’s Services will discuss the matter with the Police when carrying out their risk assessment. Some changes in the contact details have been updated (see Section 10, Important Services and Helplines). The updated chapter has an additional Appendix to demonstrate the MERLIN triage process.
New Chapters and features
Chapter Name	Details
Female Genital Mutilation Guidance	This chapter contains links to the Southwark Safeguarding Children Board chapter and the London Safeguarding Children Board site. The Southwark SCB fully reflects a multi-agency based approach to this area of safeguarding and acknowledges that the approach is underpinned by a number of significant international bodies. The chapter identifies a number of issues around FGM with respect to risk factors and acknowledges the mandatory reporting of this - the impact of the Serious Crime Act 2015. The Southwark SCB highlights key roles and responsibilities and procedures and provides a range of contact details / information together with a useful Risk Assessment The chapter also contains links to a range of documents upon which the chapter and suggested practice is based. The London SCB site contains a range of publicity and information / educational resources. Please fully read.
Ceasing to Look After	This chapter reflects the statutory guidance ‘Ceasing to look after a child’ in ‘Care Planning, Placement and Case Review Regulations (2015)’ as amended by the ‘Care Planning and Fostering (Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2015’ together with Working Together to Safeguard Children 2015. The Local Authority has a duty to ensure that when children have been Accommodated under Section 20 (Children Act 1989) and are discharged from, or leave care, that the discharge is in their best interests and that they will be safeguarded and their welfare will be promoted. Where a child has been Accommodated for 20 days or more, the decision should be made by a Nominated Officer, or Director of Children’s Services if the child/young person is 16/17 yrs and has been Accommodated under Section 20, before discharge.
Young Carers	This chapter reflects the Young Carers Needs (Needs Assessments) Regulations 2015 and identifies the framework that needs to be used to undertake assessments. Young Carers are defined as anyone who is under 18yrs who provides practical or emotional support to another member of the family, whether this is an adult or child. The local authority is expected also to undertake reasonable steps to identify ‘young carers’ in their area. Please fully read.
Southwark Children’s Services Practice Guidance on Safeguarding Children Exposed to Extremism	This chapter explores the issue of safeguarding children who might be subject or exposed to extremist behaviour and ideologies, and as a result might themselves be, or become, subject to significant harm. The chapter seeks to explore the features which support a ‘radicalisation process’ and some of the factors which increase and reduce risk. It is acknowledged that such a process is a dynamic and individual experience for each child. Children’s Social Care have a particular responsibility for children who are Looked After. Note: Southwark is a Prevent Priority Authority.

2015 Amendments

September 2015

Updated Chapters
Chapter Name	Details
Foreword and Introduction	This chapter has been reviewed.
Thresholds for Children’s Social Care Safeguarding Services	This chapter has been updated and features the updated Southwark SCB Multi-agency threshold guide 2015'. The Early Help contact details have also been significantly updated, (see Early Help Contact Details).
Management of Allegations Against Adults who Work with Children (Southwark Safeguarding Children Board Protocol)	This chapter has been updated in line with Working Together 2015 and Keeping children safe in education (2015). Amendments have been made to the process. Please fully read.
Southwark Safeguarding Children Board Protocol for Children at Risk of Sexual Exploitation	The chapter has been introduced to the manual to provide a link to the updated Southwark Safeguarding Children Board's Protocol For Children At Risk of Sexual Exploitation. Three Appendices have also been added to help develop knowledge and skills: Southwark CSE Process Map; Southwark CSE Risk Screening Tool; SIPPS CSE Risk Assessment Worksheet.
Physical Interventions	This chapter has been updated in line with the Children's Homes Regulation Amendments 2014.
Placements in Foster Care	This chapter has been updated by adding a link to the 'DfE, Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations - Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (2015)'.
Placements in Secure Accommodation	This chapter has been updated in by adding a link to the 'DfE, Secure children's homes: how to place a child aged under 13 (2015)'.
Placements with Friends and Family Foster Carers (also known as Connected Persons carers)	This chapter has been comprehensively updated and reviewed to detail the assessment process required for a Connected Carer. Additionally, four Appendices have been added relating to the Assessment and Reporting and Approval of Connected Carers and also one which details what the assessment should consider when temporarily approving a Connected Carer.
Looked After Reviews	This chapter has been updated by adding a link to the 'DfE, Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations - Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (2015)'.
Allegations against Foster Carers, Prospective Adopters and Adopters	This chapter has been revised to reflect the changes in Working Together 2015. A number of relevant links have also been added. Please fully re-read.
Health Care Assessments and Health Care Plans	This chapter has been updated in line with Statutory Guidance on Promoting the Health and Well-being of Looked After Children (March 2015). It contains new sections: Section 1, The Responsibilities of Local Authorities and Clinical Commissioning Groups; Section 2, Principles; Section 3, Health Care Assessments).
Support for Care Leavers – Succeeding into Adulthood	This chapter has been fully revised throughout to reflect current local services, values procedures and practices for young people together leaving care with update statutory and regulatory guidance. The chapter needs to be fully re-read.
Responsibilities of the Local Authority to Former Looked After Children and Young People in Custody	This chapter has been updated to update the address of the Youth Justice Board and to add a link to The Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations - Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (2015).
Social Worker Visits	This chapter has been updated by adding a link to DfE, Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations - Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (2015).
Looked After Children Who have their Own Funds	This chapter has been updated to acknowledge that the maximum that can be saved in a Junior ISA is now £4080 pa. Also, that from April 2015 a child with a Child Trust fund will be able to transfer their money into a Junior ISA. (see note in Section 3.1, Introduction)
Advocacy and Independent Visitors	This chapter has been amended to update the details and contacts in respect of the Advocacy Service (see Section 1, Advocates) and the Independent Visiting scheme (see Section 2, Independent Visitors).
Children and Young People Aged 0 - 25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities	This chapter has been amended in line with the Care Act 2015 and Young Carers (Needs Assessment) Regulations (2015). A new Section 13, Young Carers and Parental Carers of Disabled Children has been added.
Permanence Planning	This chapter has been updated by adding a link to DfE, Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations - Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (2015).
Children with Disabilities	This chapter has been updated to reflect new organisational roles and processes which are integrated into the Department's overall processes and procedures.
Short Breaks	This chapter has been updated in to reflect the impact of the Single Assessment Process and to include reference to The 'Breaks for Carers of Disabled Children Regulations (2011); DfE, Short Breaks for disabled children – Departmental advice for local authorities (March 2011); (see Assessment of Needs) and Children and Families Act 2014 (see Carer's Assessment). Note also Section 7, Short Break Settings, revised links to new Quality Standards for Children's Homes and Care Quality Commission (CQC). A link to updated DfE Statutory Guidance, Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations - Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (2015) has also been added together with Care and Support Statutory Guidance (DOH, October 2014).
Protocol between Children's Services and Youth Offending Service	This chapter has been updated in September 2015 to reflect the current relevant procedures and processes in respect of the broader Department, the Crime and Policing Act (2014) and updating it with respect to the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders (2012). A link is made also to the updated Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations - Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (2015).
Protocol for Joint Working between Children’s Social Care and Solace Advocacy and Support Services (SASS)	This chapter has been updated by adding an Appendix on 'Conflict Resolution' in respect of Southwark MASH. Please re – reference.
Local Contacts	These details have been updated.
Designated Managers	This has been updated further by adding the reference to Serious Issues (which the Director should be notified of).
New Chapters and features
Chapter Name	Details
Southwark Staying Put Policy 2015 - 16	This chapter comprehensively covers the practice of Staying Put which provides opportunities for young people to continue to live with their foster carers for a further period of time and recognises that few young people are emotionally and socially equipped to live independently. The chapter highlights a range of issues, including the procedures, regulatory expectations and supports at a time when a 'placement' becomes an 'arrangement'. Relevant links are provided for further in-depth information where required. Please fully read.
Payments and Benefits Issues for Staying Put Carers	This chapter focuses on the issues around financial entitlements and responsibilities that may be available to Staying Put carers. It is a complex area that depends upon their circumstances and situation and that can also impact upon them financially in terms of any allowances and benefits that are received or are an entitlement.
Staying Put: Financial Requirements and Personal Benefits for Young People	This chapter focuses on the issues around financial entitlements that may be available to young people. It is a complex area that depends upon their circumstances and situation and that can also impact upon the carer financially in terms of any allowances and benefits that are received or are an entitlement. The chapter benefits from template letters (in the appendices) for the young person claiming Housing and Social Benefits. Please ensure this area of practice is fully studied.
Planning for Children and Young People: Pathway Plans including Needs Assessment - Practice Guidance	This chapter seeks to provide a framework around which questions and issues are raised that practitioners should seek to address / be aware of when undertaking needs assessment and completing a Pathway Plan. The emphasis is on undertaking this through a professional interest and dialogue approach with the young person, rather than as a bureaucratic 'tick box style' method. The process also acknowledges the practitioner should seek to understand the young person's background and its impact upon their behaviour and thinking - seeking to recognise the achievements that have been made. Please fully read.

March 2015

Updated Chapters
Chapter Name	Details
Foreword and Introduction	This chapter has been refreshed and updated.
Quality Assurance Framework	This chapter more comprehensively details the quality assurance framework and the range of processes that cover specified areas of work. The chapter also identifies the case auditing framework and reflects the Ofsted descriptors for quality practice. All staff working in Social care should be familiar with this chapter with regard to their day-day practice.
Protocol for Single Assessments (agreed with Southwark Safeguarding Children Board)	This chapter details Southwark's response to 'Working Together to Safeguard Children 2013' assessment requirements and reflects expectations and timescales for undertaking Assessments of children and families. The chapter also highlights when the Single Assessment is required. This chapter replaces the previous 'Initial' and 'Core Assessment' chapters.
Care and Supervision Proceedings and the Public Law Outline	This new chapter has replaced the previous 'Public Law Outline procedure'. It seeks to more fully integrate all the Public Law Outline changes that have been made over the previous 15 months and to add a link to new Guidance, 'DfE, Court Orders and Pre-proceedings for Local Authorities (April 2014)'. Please fully read.
Protocol for Transfer between Teams within Specialist Children's Services	This chapter has been updated to reflect current operational arrangements and standards. Transfers in respect of Children in Need and court cases have been more significantly updated.
Whistleblowing Policy Procedure	This chapter sets out Southwark's Corporate Whistleblowing Procedure and provides key advice for staff members who are concerned about practices within the Department or Council - as well as key support and advice services.
Southwark Safeguarding Children Board Protocol for Children at Risk of Sexual Exploitation	This chapter relates to Southwark's multi-agency response to Child Sexual Exploitation and should be fully explored by all Practitioners and Managers. It replaces the previous chapter and contains a link also to The London Child Sexual Exploitation Operating Protocol. Links to the 'DfE, What to do if you suspect a child is being sexually exploited, (2012)' and 'Ofsted, The sexual exploitation of children: it couldn't happen here, could it? (2014)' are also provided. A note has also been added with regard to 'Sexual Harm Prevention Orders and Sexual Risk Orders' which replace the previous 'Sexual Offences Prevention Orders', 'Sexual Offences Prevention Orders' and 'Foreign Travel Orders'.
Safeguarding Foreign National Children Who Go Missing	This chapter has been updated by adding links to 'DfE, Working with Foreign Authorities: Child Protection Cases and Care Orders, Departmental Advice for Local Authorities, Social Workers, Service Managers and Children's Services Lawyers, (July 2014)' and the 'International Child Abduction and Conduct Unit (ICACU'. Please reference as required.
Access to Records	A link and reference to The children Act 1989 guidance and regulations – Volume 3: Planning and Transition to Adulthood for Care Leavers (January 2015) has been made in Section 2, The Right of Access. Please reference the Guidance as required.
Decision to Look After and Care Planning	This chapter has been updated in line with 'Looked-after Children: Contact with Siblings - Update to Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations - Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (2015)'. Additional information has been added in to Section 1.4, Actions Required after a Decision to Look After is Made in relation to sibling placement. A link to this guidance has also been added.
Placements in Secure Accommodation	This chapter has been updated. A link to 'Statutory Guidance for Local Authorities on Court Orders and Pre-Proceedings (2014)' has been added to related guidance and chapter. An additional has been added in Section 1, Secure Accommodation Criteria - as to when a child cannot be admitted to secure accommodation.
Placement with Parents	This chapter has been updated to provide additional information into Section 1.9, Ending of Placements to take account of recent case-law (Re DE (a child) 2014).
Remand to Local Authority Accommodation or to Youth Detention Accommodation	This chapter has been significantly updated in line with the 'Statutory Guidance Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (Supplement) - Looked After Children and Youth Justice - Application of the Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (England) Regulations 2010 to Looked After Children in Contact with Youth Justice Services (April 2014)'. A link to this Guidance has also been added. Please fully re-read.
Out of Area Placements	This chapter has been updated by adding a link to DfE Statutory Guidance, 'DfE, Out of Authority Placement of Looked-after Children, Supplement to The Children Act 1989 Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case Review Guidance' and should be re-read.
Looked After Reviews	This chapter has been updated to reflect the changes within the Department and the recording processes of the Review. The process of adjourning reviews has also been updated, whilst (previous) 'cancelling reviews' section has been deleted – emphasising the importance of ensuring that reviewing a child's Plan will be a priority for all staff.
Education of Looked After Children	This chapter has been updated to add links to 'DfE, Exclusions from Maintained Schools, Academies and Pupil Referral Units in England (2012)', 'DfE, Supporting Pupils at School with Medical Conditions'. 'Statutory Guidance Governing Bodies of Maintained Schools and Proprietors of Academies in England, (September 2014)' and 'DfE, Promoting the Education of Looked After Children, Statutory Guidance for Local Authorities, (July 2014)'. Please reference as required.
Contact with Parents and Siblings	This chapter has been updated in line with the updated statutory guidance, 'Looked-after Children: Contact with Siblings - Update to Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations - Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (2015)'. Additional information has been added in to Section 1, Approving and Planning Contact, in relation to sibling placement.
Assessment and Approval of Foster Carers	This chapter has been updated to enable some local detail to be included.
Placement for Adoption	This chapter has been updated in line with the Children and Families Act 2014, and the overall aim of speeding up the adoption process. The chapter has been updated throughout and should be re-read. The main changes are in relation to: The duty to consider Fostering for Adoption placements; The removal of the requirement to give due consideration to a child's religious persuasion, racial origin and cultural and linguistic background when matching a child and prospective adopters; Post-adoption contact; Placing of siblings.
Assessment and Approval of Prospective Adoptive Parents	This chapter has been updated in line with the Children and Families Act 2014 and the overall aim of speeding up the adoption process. The chapter has been updated throughout and should be re-read. Information has been added in relation to: Fostering for Adoption (Section 1, Recruitment and Responding to Initial Enquiries and Section, 5.4, Fostering for Adoption); Adoption Register (Section 9, After the Panel Recommendation); Duty to provide information on adoption support services (Section 1, Recruitment and Responding to Initial Enquiries and Section 2, Registration of Interest in Adoption); Ethnicity (Section 15.3, Ethnicity).
Adoption Support Services	This chapter has been updated in line with the Children and Families Act 2014. A new Section 2, Duty to Provide Information Concerning Adoption Support has been added.
Intermediary Services	This chapter has been updated throughout in line with the 'Adoption Information and Intermediary Services (Pre-Commencement Adoptions) (Amendment) Regulations 2014', and should be re-read.
CLA Service - Succeeding into Adulthood - under review	This chapter has been updated in line with 'Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations Volume 3: Planning Transition to Adulthood for Care Leavers (revised January 2015)'.
Case Records for Looked After Children	This chapter has been updated to emphasise the Chronology and Genogram in a child's case file.
Looked After Children in Contact with the Youth Justice System	This chapter has been significantly updated in line with the 'DfE, Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations: Volume 2: Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (Supplement) - Looked After Children and Youth Justice - Application of the Care Planning, Placement and Case Review (England) Regulations 2010 to Looked After Children in Contact with Youth Justice Services (April 2014)', a link to which has been added. Guidance has been added with respect to 17 year olds attending the police station (see Section 2, Looked After Children Who Have Been Arrested).
Permanence Planning	This chapter has been updated in line with the Children and Families Act 2014, and the overall aim of speeding up the adoption process. The chapter has been updated throughout and should be re-read. The main changes are in relation to adoption, specifically Fostering for Adoption, Concurrent Planning and Temporary Approval as Foster Carers of Approved Prospective Adopters.
Asylum Seekers - under review	This chapter has been updated by adding a link to 'Care of Unaccompanied and Trafficked Children: Statutory Guidance for Local Authorities on the Care of Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking and Trafficked Children (2014)'.
Protocol between Independent Reviewing Officers and Managers	This chapter has been updated to reflect the roles and structure of the department.
New Chapters and features
Chapter Name	Details
Children Missing Education Protocol	This chapter details the issues and concerns in respect of children who are not registered in a school, or who go absent and effectively do not return, together with the necessary action required. Links to a variety of up-date guidance is provided.
Elective Home Education Protocol	This chapter explores the responsibility and boundaries between the parent/carer and local authority with regard to children who are educated at home.
Need to Know – Informing the Director Children's Social Care about Serious Issues	This chapter identifies the sorts of situations that have particular risks and sensitivities that the Director needs to be advised off and briefed on.
Fostering for Adoption, Concurrent Planning and Temporary Approval as Foster Carers of Approved Prospective Adopters (Early Permanence)	This chapter seeks to detail the issues and processes with regard to placements that are made initially as foster placements but then go on to adoption. The Local Authority must consider placing the child with a local authority foster carer who has been approved as a prospective adopter (a 'dually approved carer'). A link to 'Fostering For Adoption: Practice Guidance (CoramBAAF)' has been provided. Please fully read.
Supporting Care Leavers Through to 25	This chapter focuses on the Support a care leaver will be able to seek if, when they are 21 years, they make a decision to progress into some form of education or training.
Looked After Children Who have their Own Funds	This chapter explores a range of 'savings' and dealing with other monetary issues for children e.g. Criminal Injury Compensation Awards. Please fully read.
Children and Young People Aged 0-25 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities	This procedure sets out the specific provision under the Children and Families Act 2014 in relation to children and young people aged 0-25 with Special Educational Needs or disabilities. For the purposes of the Act, 'young person' is someone aged 16-25. Please fully read.
Updated Terminology
Keyword: Interim Care Order/Interim Supervision Orders	The Children and Families Act 2014 removes the time limit on Interim Care/Supervision Orders. The Keyword for this has been amended.
Throughout the Manual	The term 'Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs)' is replaced with Anti-Social Behaviour Injunctions'.
Throughout the Manual	The term 'Sexual Offences Prevention Orders', 'Risk of Sexual Harm Orders' and 'Foreign Travel Orders' (which have been introduced by the Sexual Offences Act 2003)' are replaced by 'Sexual Harm Prevention Orders' and 'Sexual Risk Orders.'
Throughout the Manual	The term 'SEN' is replaced with 'Education, Health and Care.'

2014 Amendments

March 2014

Updated Chapters
Chapter Name	Details
Foreword and Introduction	This chapter has been updated.
Contacts and Referrals	This chapter has been updated to reflect Working Together 2013: where the referral has been accepted by Children’s Social Care, the Lead Professional role is taken over by the social worker, (see Section 1, Contacts and Referrals). Also with regard to ‘Timescales’ and the ‘Initial Disposal’, the child is involved and informed as soon as possible. The chapter also reflects the Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) and Single Assessment process.
Initiating Care Proceedings	An updated reference has been made with respect to the Children and Families Act 2014 which provided for a 26 week limit for Care Proceedings. Additionally, a new section has been added with respect to parallel criminal investigations, providing comment on social work disclosure of information to the CPS and Police.
Public Law Outline	This chapter has been substantially updated to reflect the updated Public Law Outline came into effect on 22 April 2014, alongside the statutory 26-week time-limit for completion of care and supervision proceedings under the Children and Families Act 2014. Please re-read in its entirety.
Representations, Complaints and Claims Procedure	This chapter has been updated to more clearly distinguish the two stage complaint process and establish more specifically the time scales expected throughout the process.
Action to be Taken in the event of the Death of or Serious Injury to a Child or Other Critical Incidents	This chapter has been amended to reflect the change in reporting together with additional information with regard to Ofsted and Southwark Safeguarding Children’s Board.
Southwark Protocol for Children At Risk of Sexual Exploitation	This chapter has been updated to add a new section on the Child Sexual Offender Disclosure Scheme which provides members of the public with a formal mechanism to ask for disclosure about people they are concerned about, who have unsupervised access to children.
Notifications by other Local Authorities of Looked After Children Placed in Southwark	This chapter has been amended in line with the Children's Homes and Looked after Children (Miscellaneous Amendments) (England) Regulations 2013 in relation to notifications received from children’s homes of children admitted to/discharged from the Home and to update the chapter with regard to the organizational structure.
Children Missing from Home	This chapter has been updated to reflect the Statutory guidance on children who go missing etc. in that an independent interview must be offered to a child on their return home, (see Section 3, Return Interviews).
Placements in Foster Care	This chapter has been updated in line with the Children's Homes and Looked after Children (Miscellaneous Amendments) (England) Regulations 2013: additional information to the inclusion of information agreed between the local authority and the placement provider about the arrangements to keep the child safe; a Looked After Review should be held where the child has been persistently absent from their placement, or where there are concerns that the child may be at risk of harm.
Out of Area Placements	This chapter has been updated relation to Placements at a Distance in line with the Children's Homes and Looked after Children Miscellaneous (Amendments) (England) Regulations 2013. It highlights the issues of the ‘Placement at a Distance’.
Looked After Reviews	This chapter has been updated in line with the Children's Homes and Looked after Children (Miscellaneous Amendments) (England) Regulations 2013: a Review should be held where the child has been persistently absent from their placement, or where there are concerns that the child may be at risk of harm; consideration must be given as to whether the placement safeguards and promotes the child’s welfare, and whether any safeguarding concerns have been raised.
Children Missing from Care Procedure	The chapter has been amended to update the section on the ‘Child’s Return’ (see Section 9, The Child's Return) emphasising the need to consider the independent return interview and notifying the IRO where there are child protection concerns particularly.
Pets Policy	This chapter has been updated to note some changes in the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991effective from May 2014 (see Section 2, Prohibited Animals).
CLA Service - Succeeding into Adulthood	This chapter has been updated to provide a link to Children Act 1989 Guidance and Regulations Volume 3: Planning Transition to Adulthood for Care Leavers (revised May 2014) and HM Government, ‘Staying Put’: arrangements for care Leavers aged 18 and above top stay on with their former foster carers, (May 2013) as well as a link to the DfE Website on Children Leaving Care. From the Children and Families Act 2014, in Pathway Planning, local authorities need to determine as part of their assessment of need for a young person, whether a ‘staying put’ arrangement is appropriate and how it will continue to develop a young person’s independence skills. A new (general) Section in 2.7 has also been added, Young People Resuming Education or Training After 21.
Case Records for Looked After Children	This chapter has been updated to provide a table of statutory timescales for Looked After Children.
Education of Looked After Children	This chapter has been updated by adding a link in the scope box to the ‘DfE, Keeping Children safe in Education: Statutory guidance for schools and colleges (2014)’.
Southwark SCB: Multi-Agency Protocol for Children Missing from Home and Care	This SSCB chapter has been updated and refreshed. Please re-visit.
Local Contacts	This chapter has been updated.
Designated Managers	This chapter has been updated.
New Chapters and features
Chapter Name	Details
Protocol for Joint Working between Children’s Social Care and Solace Advocacy and Support Services (SASS)	This new chapter describes Southwark Council’s commissioned service for domestic violence and abuse: how referrals can be made; the nature of the inter relationship with Children’s Social Care and the services and support that are provided to those who are experiencing this. Please read in entirety.

End