Initial and Core Assessments

Initial Assessment

If, as a result of a Referral, there are indications that the child is [In Need], which may include concerns of Significant Harm, the local authority will conduct an Initial Assessment.

This is a brief assessment to determine whether the child is in need, the nature of any services required and whether a further, more detailed [Core Assessment ] should be undertaken, including where necessary a Section 47 Enquiry.

The Initial Assessment should cover the areas set out in the Framework for the Assessment of Children in Need and their Families.  Initial assessments will be completed within 7 days of the referral in line with statutory guidance. 

Core Assessment

A core assessment provides a structured, in-depth assessment of a child or young person’s needs where their circumstances are complex. The Core Assessment Record provides a structured framework for social workers to record information gathered from a variety of sources to provide evidence for their professional judgements, facilitate analysis, decision making and planning. A core assessment should be completed within 35 working days of its commencement. A completed Core Assessment Record is then used to develop the plan for the child or young person.

Referral and Assessment Process

Core assessment referrals are made through our central office in Colchester, Essex.  We will allocate the assessment to a member of our team who will have access to consultancy throughout the process.  The final initial or core assessment report can, if required, be completed on the local authority core assessment record.  This work will be quality assured before submission by e-mail to the commissioning agency. 

We have over 60 Independent Social Work Consultants fully recruited through our vetting procedure.  We can therefore provide the commissioning agency with a swift response to referrals.  We guarantee completion of the core assessment report within the 35 working days stipulated by the guidance.