If children are unable to live with their own families we have a duty under the Children Act 1989 to look after and provide accommodation for them.
Every child who is 'looked after' has a social worker who assesses the situation and creates a plan of care, setting out:
- why the child is being looked after
- how long they will be looked after
- who needs to take action
- what needs to be done to make sure that the plan is carried out effectively
Looked after children usually live with foster carers or in a children's home. In our area, there are many 'approved foster placements' which can be matched to the needs of individual children of all ages. York has one children's home looking after up to 6 young people aged 13 and over.
Support for disabled children and their families
We also provide a range of services for children who have physical and learning disabilities or complex health needs. Our specialist social workers can assess their needs so that care and support packages can be agreed. Contact the Referral Co-ordinator for Disabled Children for further information.
Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaires
Understanding a child in care’s emotional, mental health and behavioural needs is as important as their physical health. All local authorities are required to use the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaires (SDQs) to assess the emotional needs of each child.
The SDQ is a short screening questionnaire. It has 5 sections that cover details of:
- emotional difficulties
- conduct problems
- hyperactivity or inattention
- friendships and peer groups
- positive behaviour
You'll receive an email asking you to complete an SDQ annually. However, should you wish to complete one sooner than this contact the child’s social worker.
If you or anyone is concerned that the SDQ identifies potential concerns that are not being addressed by the care plan or current provision of services, discuss this with the child’s social worker as soon as possible.
Also see
Children's Services Team
Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) Team
Referral Co-ordinator for Disabled Children
Children’s Health and Disability (CHAD) Team
