Child Protection

• Local Authority children's social care should be clear with GPs about proposed actions following child protection referrals.
• GPs should follow up telephone referrals in writing.
• If no acknowledgement/outcome has been received within three days the GP should contact Local Authority children's social care to ensure that they are appropriately updated.

We continue to hear of concerns from GPs who, having made a child protection referral, receive no feedback on what actions have been taken or are planned. This can lead to potential difficulties in continuing to look after the family.

We can confirm that there should be feedback provided in all such cases.

'Working Together to Safeguard Children', HM Govt 2006 statutory guidance (Para 5.32)  states:

"Professionals who phone Local Authority (LA) children's social care should confirm referrals in writing within 48 hours. At the end of any discussion or dialogue about a child, the referrer (whether a professional or a member of the public or family) and LA children's social care should be clear about proposed action, timescales and who will be taking it, or that no further action will be taken.  The decision should be recorded by LA children's social care and by the referrer (if a professional in another service).  LA children's social care should acknowledge a written referral within one working day of receiving it.  If the referrer has not received an acknowledgement within three working days, they should contact LA children's social care again."

Do contact the office if you experience any difficulties in this area.

AM 2008