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Information for social worker or professional

Whether you're making a referral, looking for specialist support or trying to understand which Childhood Matters service is the best fit, we'll help you find the right information quickly.

I'm not sure which service is the best fit

What best describes the child or family's situation today?

A parent and baby need intensive assessment or support

There are concerns about parenting capacity, infant safety or the parent-baby relationship, and specialist assessment or support may be needed.

Suggested services
Early Parenting Assessment Service
Young Parent Support Programme

A family needs support before difficulties become more serious

Relationships are under pressure and the family would benefit from practical, therapeutic or parenting support.

Suggested services
Family & Parenting Support (Lime Tree)
Young Parent Support Programme

A child's foster placement or care arrangement is under pressure

There is a risk that a placement could break down, or intensive support is needed to help stabilise the situation.

Suggested services
Placement Stabilisation Support (PSP)
Mental Health Service for Children in Care (CHIPPS)

A child in care needs specialist mental health support

A child or young person is struggling emotionally or behaviourally following difficult life experiences.

Suggested services
Mental Health Service for Children in Care (CHIPPS)

A child needs help to stay connected with their family

A child or family would benefit from supported family time or therapeutic work to strengthen important relationships.

Suggested services
Family & Parenting Support (Lime Tree)

A child is involved in family court proceedings

The court needs an independent way to hear the child's views.

Suggested services
Children's Court Advocate Service

How our services work together

Children’s lives don’t always follow a straight path. Their needs can change over time, and some children and families benefit from more than one type of support.

That’s why Childhood Matters brings together a connected range of specialist services. Rather than working in isolation, our teams work together to help children and families receive the right support at the right time.

Frequently asked questions

Talk to our team
How do I make a referral?

Use the referral form on the Reach Us section below, or call our duty line.

What information do you need from me?

Family details, the nature of your concern, and any actions already taken.

Talk it through before you refer

If you are unsure whether a service is appropriate, contact us and we will help you identify the most appropriate pathway.