Child Protection Conference
What it means and what to expect
If you have been told there will be a Child Protection Conference, it can feel worrying and difficult to know what to expect. This guide explains what the meeting is, why it happens, and what you can do to prepare.
What is a Child Protection Conference?
A Child Protection Conference is a formal meeting organised by Social Services. It brings together professionals involved with your child (for example, social workers, teachers, health professionals) to share information and decide whether there are concerns that your child may be at risk of harm.
The meeting does not make final decisions about removing children. It is about assessing risk and deciding what support or protection may be needed.
When does it happen?
A conference usually takes place after Social Services have carried out enquiries because they are concerned about a child’s safety or welfare.
You should be invited and given a report before the meeting. This report sets out the concerns and the information professionals will rely on.
What happens at the meeting?
- each professional shares their information
- you will be given an opportunity to speak and respond to what is said
- the meeting will consider whether your child is at risk of significant harm
- a decision may be made to place your child on a Child Protection Plan
If a plan is made, it will set out:
- what the concerns are
- what needs to change
- what support will be provided
- what is expected of you as a parent
What should you do now? (practical steps)
- read the report carefully – make notes of anything you agree or disagree with
- write down your points – it can be hard to speak clearly in the meeting
- take someone with you – a friend, family member or supporter can help
- try to keep the focus on your child – what is going well and what may need to change
You do not have to agree with everything that is said. It is important that your views are recorded.
When should you get legal advice?
You can speak to one of our specialist child care solicitors at any stage: care proceedings
It is sensible to get advice, particularly if:
- the concerns are serious or unclear
- you are worried about what might happen next
- you feel the information is inaccurate or unfair
We can help you understand the process and prepare for the meeting, although we do not usually attend the conference itself.
Common terms explained
- Significant harm – a legal threshold meaning serious concern about a child’s safety or development
- Child Protection Plan – a plan setting out how risks will be managed and reduced
- Core Group – a smaller group of professionals who will meet regularly after the conference
Legal Aid
Legal Aid can sometimes be available for advice about Child Protection Conferences. However, it is limited and is means and merits tested, you need to ask your solicitor.
Legal Aid is available for advice before court proceedings (known as the PLO process), depending on your circumstances (see our PLO guide).
If court proceedings start, Legal Aid is usually available for parents regardless of income.
What to bring if you have instructed us
If you decide to get advice at this stage, as legal aid is not usually available it is provided on a private basis. We offer an initial fixed fee meeting (£250 inclusive of VAT and ID checks) for up to one hour of advice.
It helps to bring:
- the conference report
- any letters or emails from Social Services
- a short timeline of what has happened
- any notes you have made
If you only do three things now
- read the report and make notes before the meeting
- be clear about what you agree and what you do not agree with
- focus on what needs to change
Sources and important notes
This guide is based on current law and practice in England and Wales, including the Children Act 1989 and statutory guidance issued by the Department for Education. It reflects how these processes operate in practice. It is intended as general information only and is not a substitute for legal advice on your specific situation.