What we do

Skilled assessments

We possess the skills to help find child focused solutions, grounded on the realities of everyday life and applying the principles and presumptions of the Children Act 1989 and the Adoption and Children Act 2002. We do this in the following ways:

• acting as Children's Guardians
• expert (professional) Witness reports and evidence
• chairing complex meetings (CP, Fostering, Adoption, Stat Reviews, Complaints etc.)
• kinship Assessments
• interim Management
• service Audits
• conflict Resolution (complaints, disciplinary etc)
• general Consultancy

Finding solutions

We pride ourselves on our problem resolution skills. Negotiated outcomes are always the best, as families, staff or organisations are more likely to work to these, rather than any imposed solutions.

Conflict resolution is not always that simple or easy, but we take a partnership approach with those we work with – the aim being to find the best solution for the child. Where partnership resolution is not found, workable solutions are sought which best promote the life chances of children.

Working methodology

Our principles are based on partnership working, respect for the individual, inclusivity and open working practices. Those we work with know what solutions can prevail, we help them find workable solutions, or if that is not possible we make detailed assessments on what it appears will best work for the child. Children paramount is the fundamental principle of the Children Act, and it underpins all our work. We also incorporate the Human Rights Act into our work, valuing among other things the right to family life, respect for individuals and transparency in our working methods.

Our assessments may not always be welcomed by all parties, but our methodology and practices are transparent and open to challenge. It is always our aim to please, but the higher principle of what appears right for the child will always be the final concern..

We, as a matter of routine, give feedback to those we work with on the progress of the contract and try to ensure that any final report contains no surprises. Feedback is given informally by speaking to the relevant people on a regular basis. This way, everyone has an opportunity to reflect and if required attend to any emerging problems or issues. Commissioning agencies or solicitors always receive regular updates on progress.