Child Protection Guidance 2021

Part 4: Specific support needs and concerns 145 National Guidance for Child Protection in Scotland 2021 Version 1.0 September 2021 4.87 A structured framework for assessment of neglect is recommended in order to improve the quality and consistency of assessment. Practitioners who are confident about their use are more likely to promote purposeful, step-by-step working relationships with parents. The Graded Care Profile (GCP) (Srivastava 1997) has been adapted and used since 2009. Version 2 of this framework has been evaluated (NSPCC 2018) and adaptations are being tested in some parts of Scotland. 4.88 Strength-based approaches and a systematic, structured approach to assessment can be applied together. At all junctures in assessment, planning and support, the aim is to find a meeting point and shared understanding about what needs to change to keep the child safe and well, and how this will be achieved within a timescale that is right for the children involved. This clarity is essential in the context of compulsory measures. CPCScotland will publish ‘Child Neglect in Scotland: Understanding Causes and Supporting Families’ in Autumn 2021. This is a framework setting out guiding principles for working with children and young people who may be experiencing neglect, and supporting local areas to ensure that local Integrated Children’s Service and Child Protection Committee plans incorporate appropriate actions to prevent, reduce and manage the impact of neglect on children and families. 4.89 The concept of capacity to change may promote transparency of goals, methods, shared responsibilities and timescales. Advocacy and Third Sector supports may play a key part in motivational support and work for change. 4.90 When children have experienced chronic neglect, they may not be used to adults being or becoming predictable, kind and nurturing. They can be distrustful and anxious, and may behave in ways that seem rejecting or angry. This is demanding for parents or carers seeking to offer a secure base and a safe home. To prevent secondary harmful cycles occurring when children are accommodated, carers and children may need additional support in understanding and response to these dynamics. 4.91 When children have had to be removed from parental care in cases of neglect, effective child protection leads into careful assessment of reunification and transitional support needs. For example, NSPCC resources designed for use within English legislation offer guidance (NSPCC 2015). (Reunification: An evidence-informed framework for return home practice. ) Progress is rarely linear and final. Any good plan should include sufficient continuity of, or access to support for predictable and unpredictable crises. 4.92 A practice insight on this topic has been drafted to illustrate and explain key practice considerations, offer a resource, prompt reflection and signpost selected sources. It can be found in the Practice Insights supporting document alongside this Guidance. Resources and References – Neglect and emotional abuse