Child in need cases opened up to non-social work staff despite risk concerns

Child in need cases have been opened up to non-social work qualified staff despite concerns that the policy will increase risks to children. The Department for Education’s (DfE) revised version of Working Together to Safeguard Children has removed the previous requirement for child in need assessments and casework to be reserved for qualified social workers. Under the new policy, staff, including those outside of the local authority, will be able to take on the role, now termed ‘lead practitioner’, under the oversight of a social work qualified manager or practice supervisor. Child protection enquiries and casework will remain ring-fenced for social workers. Read more.