Frustration is the most common reaction of families who experience Social Services intervention. Interference with family life is one of the most serious actions that the state can undertake.
When Social Services Intervene
Frustration, anger, and confusion are typical reactions to a visit from a social worker. What right does a social worker have to intervene? What right do they have to interview your child? Who told them your child might be at risk of harm? What will happen if you cooperate? Or if you don’t cooperate? These are some of the questions that will be asked following a Social Services intervention.
Social Services have a legal duty to ensure that no child within their area is at risk of harm, either from neglect, sexual or other forms of abuse. We have all heard the news stories of children who have suffered terrible abuse. If Social Services get any information, they have a duty to investigate. Such sources of information might be from a school, a health worker, a neighbour or sometimes an anonymous caller. Whatever the source, the social worker has no choice; they must investigate.
It is always best to cooperate, but how far must you cooperate? That will depend on the facts of each case and often requires the assistance of specialist legal advice.
Important things to consider
Cooperate, yes, but cooperation must go both ways. As a parent, Social Services have no right to bully you or force you into agreements you may not accept. Nor do they have a right to take your child.
Research states that a child is best placed with his or her parents, unless there is strong evidence suggesting otherwise. It is therefore very important to get advice from a solicitor as soon as possible.
We have prepared a factsheet on how to deal with an initial approach from Social Services. Please click here for more information.
Why use Fisher Meredith?
Fisher Meredith is an award winning London law firm with offices in Richmond, Surrey and Kennington, London. Our Children’s Law solicitors have an outstanding reputation for acting on behalf of individuals with highly successful results.
For 35 years, Fisher Meredith has developed a reputation for being approachable and “going the extra mile” for its clients whilst maintaining ethical and socially responsible standards.
Our Children’s Law Department is one of the largest in the UK and our solicitors have a wide range of experience concerning Children’s Law cases. Our solicitors also have extensive experience of cases involving social services and many are accredited by the Law Society’s Children’s Panel.
What should I do now?
If you are contacted by a social worker regarding concerns about your child, it is essential that you are able to deal with them with confidence. Our Children’s Law Department will provide you with quality advice and confidence to achieve the best possible outcome.
For initial advice or to arrange a meeting with one of our solicitors, please contact our helpline on 0800 014 7445.
