Common Assessment Framework (CAF) and Referrals to Children's Social Care
Common Assessment Framework (CAF) and Referrals to Children’s Services Social Care (CSSC) - Briefing Note
Purpose of briefing note To clarify the position in relation to the Common Assessment Framework and referrals to Children’s Services Social Care (CSSC).
Context This briefing note needs to be read in conjunction with MSCB procedures.
Background In recent months, there has been some confusion amongst practitioners as to whether a common assessment is required prior to referral to CSSC for social work intervention. Practitioners are aware that some LAs in the NW will not accept a referral (except in very urgent circumstances) unless a common assessment has been completed. It was proposed that Manchester would adopt this position but, following feedback from practitioners, this decision has now been deferred.
Current position Referrals to CSSC will continue to be made on the Multi-Agency Referral and Assessment Form (MARAF), using the associated guidance. CAF can support a referral to CSSC and, as stated in the guidance, can be attached to the MARAF to avoid duplicating information.
As CAF implementation progresses, practitioners, when making a referral for a child in need, will be asked if a common assessment has been completed and CAF meetings held, and there will be an expectation that the CAF process has been followed. As with the introduction of the MARAF, the process will ensure high quality information sharing and ensure that children and families, as their needs change, access social care services following an integrated process and pathway, understood by partner agencies.
As CAF becomes more embedded, an assessment will be made with partner agencies as to when and whether the circumstances are right and safe to make a common assessment a prerequisite for a referral to CSSC, especially for children in need. The decision will be made with partner agencies and approved by the MSCB.