In response to a demand from our network, we have developed the tool to support multi-agency staff to better exercise professional judgement and to promote greater involvement of children, young people and parent(s)/carer(s) in the assessment and planning process. The tool moves away from a scoring and tick box approach and is designed to be used to inform rather than determine professional judgements. This approach will require good engagement with children and their families to complete the assessment and we know from research, including the Office of the Children’s Commissioner, as well as learning from serious case reviews, that this is fundamental to good assessment and planning.  The tool also has revised definitions of a child’s level of need/risk and this is to try and address current practice where children who are being exploited are referred to as at ‘high risk of sexual exploitation’, rather than victims of abuse/exploitation.

The revised tool has been informed by consultation with NWG network members, including those who attended a CSE Coordinators Forum. Young People and Parents/Carers have also been consulted during this process to ensure their voices are heard and represented in this tool. In addition, available research has informed the update however we recognise that there is a limited evidence base in this area and to this end we will seek to evaluate the assessment tool on both the quality of practice and outcomes for children and young people. The tool is designed not only to assess risk but to identify need and opportunities for intervention as early as possible. 

The tool has been piloted by multi agency professionals and services in order to test the process and has received positive feedback.  The tool will be accompanied by a comprehensive training offer which will be supported by a film which is young person led. 

Where and when:

We are holding 8 regional launch events where delegates will have the opportunity to hear from key professionals in the sector including researchers and academics. The tool will be launched at these events with a preview of the supporting training and film material. NOTE: ALL EVENTS CURRENTLY FULL-NEW VENUES AND DATES PLANNED