Assessment Record
EAST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE COUNCIL
Client ID
XXXXXXXX
Client Name
Unborn Smith
Date of Birth
Estimated Due date: in 4 months (05.05.12)
Other Names
None
Current Address
999 Cross Terrace
Bridlington YO15 1BB
Home Address
As above
Assessment Type
ICS Core Assessment
Assessment Start Date
05/01/12
Assessment End Date
18/02/12
Consent Full
09/01/12
The information in this report was based on the information available on 22/10/12
ASSESSMENT RECORD
PERSON'S DETAILS
Family Name : Smith
Given Name : Unborn
Estimated date of delivery : 05.03.12
Gender : Female
Local Authority : East Riding of Yorkshire Council
Religion : C.of E./Anglican
Ethnic Origin : White - British
Is an interpreter required ? No
Main Language :
English
PARTIES INCLUDED IN THE ASSESSMENT
Name
Susan Taylor
Involvement
Social Worker
Reason
Assessor
Address, Telephone and Email
County Hall, Cross Street, Beverley,
East Riding Of Yorkshire, HU17 9BA
[email protected]
01482 111 2222
Susan Smith
Mother
999, Cross Terrace, Bridlington Tel 12345 6789
Jimmy Roberts
Father to unborn
Address unknown
Alex Johnson
Father to Alice
7 Parley Street, Bridlignton Tel 478739 0988
Josephine Smith
Maternal Grandmother
Residence order for Alice (sibling)
111 Square Street, Goole Tel 01377 12345
Moira Paton
Midwife
Health Centre, Old Street,BrIdlington
HU17 8CD
Moirapaton@nhs eastriding .co.uk
1482 222 3333
Dr Jones
GP
Rosemary Swift
Probation Officer
Glynis Power
DVAP
Sue Thomas
Bridlington Children’s Centre
Faith Brown
Boston Mayflower
Assessment Record – EAST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE COUNCIL
Client ID:
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Client Name:
Unborn Smith
Health Centre, address as above
Probation Service
19 Godfrey Street, Bridlington Tel: 345678
Butts Close, Bridlington Tel: 477937830
Church Street, Bridlington Tel: 802766839
SAFETY AND ACCESS ISSUES FOR PROFESSIONALS VISITING CURRENT ADDRESS
Hazard: Ms Smith currently resides in a flat which is contained within a larger property with a shared foyer. There
have been several occasions when professionals have witnessed altercations within the lobby between other
tenants. These have been of a verbal and physical nature and as such visiting professionals should have plans
with regard to how they will manage this.
DETAILS CONCERNING THE ASSESSMENT
Reasons for undertaking the Assessment ( if this is an update what is the reason for the update ?
Conference, Review etc.
Concerns have been raised in relation to Ms Smith’s historical capacity to protect her daughter, Alice (now 7
years old). Alice was subject of a non accidental injury whilst in the care of Ms Smith and Alice’s birth father, Mr
Johnson. As a result of this injury Alice has been left with some level of brain damage culminating in a range of
additional needs. Following criminal investigation Mr Johnson is serving a custodial sentence for the injuries
inflicted upon Alice. Consultation with the prison and probation services have indicated that Mr Johnson has 18
months outstanding on his sentence. Ms Smith does not have the care of her daughter who resides with
maternal Grandmother under a residence order.
Date Assessment Started 05 / 01 / 2012
Date Assessment Ended
18 / 02 / 2012
DATE CHILD / YOUNG PERSON AND FAMILY MEMBERS SEEN / INTERVIEWED
Date
Name of Person/ Child Seen
10/01/12
19/01/12
03/02/12
10/02/12
15/02/12
Ms Susan Smith
Ms Susan Smith and Mrs Josephine Smith (Alice seen)
Ms Susan Smith
Mrs Josephine Smith. (Alice seen)
Ms Susan Smith
DISABILITY OR COMMUNICATION NEEDS
Where a child/parent has a disability or where they have specific communication needs what actions
have been taken to address this?
Baby has not yet been born and as such it is unknown as to whether s/he will have any disability. Ms Susan
Smith has attended all routine scans as part of her pregnancy and none have identified any concerns with regard
to the health of baby.
Ms Susan Smith’s does not have any communication needs and she has no noted learning difficulties which
might impact upon her understanding.
Assessment Record – EAST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE COUNCIL
Client ID:
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Client Name:
Unborn Smith
HEALTH
Child’s individual developmental needs: Health (General well being and physical presentation, ongoing
health treatments, GP/Consultants, immunisations, hospital admissions, ongoing dental treatments).
Ms Susan Smith does not have any known genetic conditions which could impact upon her baby being born with
a disability. Ms Smith became aware of her pregnancy whilst in her tenth week and at this point she sought
confirmation of her pregnancy through her GP. It was noted by the GP that Ms Smith presented as very happy at
the news of her pregnancy. Prior to the confirmation of the pregnancy, Ms Smith states that she smoked and
enjoyed socially drinking alcohol on nights out with her friends (It is self reported that this was 3-4 times per
week).
It is claimed by Ms Smith that upon discovery of her pregnancy she ceased smoking and reduced her drinking to
one or two units once per week. Contrary to this account third party information suggests that Ms Smith was
seen drinking to excess at a party to the point inebriation on 23.09.11. GP records confirm that Ms Smith was
aware of her pregnancy at this time. In addition the third party information noted that at the party Ms Smith was
showing her scan picture which is further confirmation that at this time Ms Smith was fully aware of her
pregnancy. In discussing this incident with me Ms Smith demonstrated some naivety in her understanding of the
impact that alcohol can have on the unborn child. Following such discussion Ms Smith has worked with her
midwife and attended four sessions at the local children centre. The focus of these sessions has been to raise
Ms Smith’s understating or the effects of alcohol use in pregnancy and to give advice on diet, reducing stress
and general taking care of her both through and after pregnancy.
Ms Smith has attended all ante-natal appointments and reports from the midwife have been positive, noting that
Ms Smith’s presentation about her pregnancy has been good and that she has appeared in good physical and
emotional health. This is important when considering the factors which will impact upon unborn’s wellbeing.
During the assessment, Ms Smith shared that she has a back condition called ‘twisted spine syndrome’ for which
she sees Dr Radcliffe, a consultant at Hull Royal Infirmary. Ms Smith reports that she does have some back pain
however this is monitored and she did not have any issues in her previous pregnancy as a result of her back
problems. The midwife and GP are aware of this and will continue to monitor during the course of Ms Smith’s
pregnancy so as to ensure that there is no risk to Ms Smith or her unborn child.
Since an early age Ms Smith reports that she has suffered from persistent water infections and although there is
still no identified cause as to why she is susceptible, Ms Smith has learnt to respond early to signs and
symptoms and to seek out appropriate medical advice and support.
Ms Smith is of a rhesus negative blood group and as such this will be managed through appropriate ante-d
injections.
It should be noted that following the advice of her mother, Ms Smith contacted children’s social care herself to
notify that she was pregnant and to discuss what might need to happen with regard to the historical concerns.
Ms Smith’s delivery of Alice was uncomplicated and Alice was not born with any health needs or disabilities.
Assessment Record – EAST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE COUNCIL
Client ID:
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Client Name:
Unborn Smith
EDUCATION
Child’s individual developmental needs: Education (school /nursery – special educational needs/ level of
attendance/attainment/presentation, Children’s Centre attendance/sessions,involved parties – School
Nurse/ Class Teacher/Headteacher)
There is research which highlights the importance of attachment and education even prior to the birth of a baby.
I have observed Ms Smith to chat away and sing softly to her unborn and she makes consistent positive
reference to the things she wants to do when baby is born.
As a newborn there will be a need to ensure that opportunity for appropriate learning and stimulation
opportunities are offered. Ms Smith has brought a range of early educational toys and she has made links with
her local children centre. This demonstrates a positive commitment to the pregnancy and gives some indication
of a developing positive attachment.
CHILD/YOUNG PERSON'S OTHER DEVELOPMENTAL NEEDS
Describe the child/young person’s individual development and any outstanding needs in each area:
Emotional and behavioural development, family identity, family and social relationships, social
presentation, self care skills.
Emotional and behavioural development
Ms Smith’s newborn baby will be reliant upon Ms Smith to have all of his/her physical and emotional needs met.
Baby will require stability and security with the primary caregiver in order to develop healthy attachments to
support him/her through life and in all future relationships.
Historical evidence suggests that there were no concerns raised in respect of Ms Smith’s ability to meet her first
child’s physical needs. Until the incident which took place there had been no indications that Ms Smith had been
struggling to care for her baby. Further information provided by Ms Smith during the course of this assessment
suggests that there were difficulties in her relationship with Alice’s father and that Alice was exposed to shouting
and arguing between them. Ms Smith failed to recognise the impact of this upon Alice’s emotional development
and this raises questions as to her understanding of this and how it may impact in the future upon her unborn.
Identity
Ms Smith has given conflicting information in respect of her relationship with the father of her unborn child (Mr
Roberts). Whilst Ms Smith has been clear that she does not intend to ever resume her relationship with Mr
Roberts, she has been unable to contemplate what her child’s relationship with him might look like in the future
and how she will answer questions relevant to her child’s identity. This is an area which will require further
thought and reflection in order to inform decisions and ensure that the best interests of the unborn child are
considered.
Assessment Record – EAST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE COUNCIL
Client ID:
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Client Name:
Unborn Smith
Family and Social Relationships
Ms Smith has a close relationship with her family and in particular cites her mother as a good source of
emotional support. Mrs Josephine Smith reports that she experienced some difficulties with her relationship
with her daughter during her teenage years but on reflection she views that these were no different to those
experienced by many parents during such transitional times. Of particular relevance is that Ms Smith’s father
died when she was in her teenage years and this significantly impacted upon her relationship with her mother
at this time. Ms Smith notes that she was isolated and secretive.
During the time of the incident involving Alice, Mrs Smith identified that she felt angry and hurt that her
daughter had not appropriately protected Alice. Mrs Smith described that for a long time she blamed her
daughter for Alice’s injuries and that her relationship with her was very strained. It has taken time for their
relationship to re-establish and they have sought external mediation support to resolve some of their issues.
Both women describe that they communicate better now and that their relationship has become stronger as a
result of the support they have received.
Mrs Smith has described that she values family life and believes that family is important to all children. This is
the reason that Mrs Smith presented herself to care for Alice and she states that she will also be there for
Susan’s unborn baby. Based on my observations of the relationship between Ms Susan Smith and her
mother and observations of Mrs Smith with Alice, I feel that it is fair to anticipate that the unborn baby will be
given opportunity to develop strong attachments with family members and that Mrs Smith will act as a strong
protective factor.
Social Presentation
It is difficult to make any judgment in relation to this due to the fact that baby has not yet been born.
Self care Skills
As a newborn baby there will be a total reliance upon the primary caregiver to meet all needs and as such
baby will be highly vulnerable to the consequences of poor parenting.
PARENTING CAPACITY
Parents / carer’s ability to respond appropriately to the needs of the child/ young person. Basic
care, ensuring safety, emotional warmth, stimulation, guidance and boundaries, stability.
Ms Susan Smith’s history
Ms Smith was born on 01.01.88 to parents Josephine Smith and Anthony Smith. Ms Susan Smith has a sister
who is 18 months younger than herself and she describes that they were close as children growing up although
in their adult years they have less contact due to her sister now living in Kent.
Ms Smith was born in Ireland where her father was serving in the Armed Forces. Ms Smith recalls that at the age
of 5 she and her family moved to Bridlington where they spent a period of time living with her Grandmother
before moving to their own property. Ms Smith recalled that her parents spent lots of time with her and her sister
and they had lots of fun family time. In describing her parent’s relationship Ms Smith noted that they took on
traditional type roles with her mother taking care of the home whilst her father went out to work. As Ms Smith’s
Father was at work a lot of the time she feels that he rarely reprimanded her and her sister and much of the
discipline was left to her Mother.
When Ms Smith was 13 years old, her father died following the discovery of aggressive cancer of the lungs. Ms
Smith explained that life ‘turned upside down’ over night and although her Mother continued to be emotionally
strong for her and her sister, the household routine changed significantly. Mrs Josephine Smith had to go out
and seek employment and Ms Susan Smith tended to take on the role of managing the house and preparing
Assessment Record – EAST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE COUNCIL
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Client Name:
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meals. This change combined with no opportunity to externally explore her feelings in respect of her loss
resulted in Ms Smith feeling isolated and she describes that she ‘went off the rails’. For Ms Smith this meant she
began to miss school and associate with older peers who encouraged her to drink and stay out late. At 15 years
old Ms Smith met Mr Johnson (birth father of Alice) and they began a relationship.
On reflection Ms Smith recognises that when she first met Mr Johnson she was at a vulnerable point in her life
and did not have the maturity to see that the relationship was not positive. Ms Smith describes that she was
seeking out someone to take care of her and that her views of Mr Johnson were misguided. Mr Johnson was at
the start of their relationship 19 years old and at the time Ms Smith felt that he was worldly wise. The relationship
was kept a secret from her Mother as Ms Smith knew that she would disapprove but also because she did not
want to burden her with any more worry.
When Ms Smith discovered her pregnancy with Alice she was delighted and wanted to share the news with her
Mother, however Mr Johnson stopped her from doing this saying that they should wait until later in the
pregnancy. At this time in her life Ms Smith described feeling very mixed in her emotions and isolated from her
Mother. As her pregnancy progressed, Ms Smith’s relationship with Mr Johnson began to deteriorate as he
began to spend more time out with his friends.
When Ms Smith eventually built up the confidence to tell her Mother of her pregnancy she was upset by the
response of her Mother who appeared disappointed in her. Looking back Ms Smith feels that this further isolated
her and made her desperate for her relationship with Mr Johnson to succeed.
Alice was born without any complication and Ms Smith described that she instantly fell in love with her. Midwife
and health visitor reports from this time note that Ms Smith breast fed and appeared to have a strong bond with
her baby. Reports from this time note that the house was always clean and well presented and Alice was making
good progress in all areas of development and growth.
Ms Smith reports that her relationship with Mr Johnson continued to have difficulties and she found herself
becoming more insecure which presented in her being possessive and wanting Mr Johnson at her side all of the
time. Although Ms Smith states that Mr Johnson would regularly shout and make threats toward her, she advises
that there were never any physical altercations. During the time that Ms Smith and Mr Johnson lived together
there are no reported incidents of domestic violence on record. At this time Ms Smith did have contact with her
Mother but she still felt that there was a distance between them and she continued to feel judged by her mother
which impacted upon their relationship and the support which was available.
On 10.08.06 Alice was admitted to Hull Royal Infirmary with a major head injury following an incident in the
home. The explanation given for this incident was that Alice’s father, Mr Johnson, had been carrying Alice down
the stairs. Alice suffered a hematoma to the right side of her brain and remained in intensive care for a significant
period of time.
At the time of this incident Ms Smith was out of the family home and was unaware of Alice’s injuries until being
contacted by the hospital. During her time at the hospital Alice underwent extensive examination and a number
of injuries and bruises were identified which were not all consistent with a fall down the stairs. Ms Smith gave
various differing accounts and inconsistencies in her explanations of the injuries which raised serious concern in
respect of her relationship with Mr Johnson and her protection of her daughter. Following investigation the local
authority made an application for a care order with the eventual outcome for Alice being that her Grandmother
was supported in an application for a residence order.
As part of the criminal investigation, Mr Johnson admitted causing harm to Alice for which he is currently serving
a custodial sentence. Ms Smith has had no further contact with Mr Johnson and maintains that she will never
speak with him or see him again. There is no evidence at this time to suggest that Ms Smith has made any
contact with Mr Johnson in prison. There is still some time before Mr Johnson could be released from prison
however it remains to be tested whether or not Ms Smith would make contact upon release.
What is evident from this information is that Ms Smith was emotionally vulnerable at the time of her failure to
protect her daughter and she failed to identify worries and concerns in respect of her then partner’s behaviour.
There were a number of issues of loss which Ms Smith had not managed to appropriately deal with and as a
Assessment Record – EAST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE COUNCIL
Client ID:
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Client Name:
Unborn Smith
consequence she was both physically and emotionally isolated.
Following the end of her relationship with Mr Johnson, Ms Smith disclosed to her Mother that she had been the
victim of domestic violence and that Mr Johnson had assaulted her physically on at least two occasions. Ms
Smith did not initially disclose this to Children’s Social care until she was prompted by her Mother who felt that it
was very significant and important that people knew. On exploration of this Ms Smith initially presented as
struggling to recognise the impact of domestic abuse upon children and young people. There was a sense from
my work with her that she continued to justify Mr Johnson’s actions toward her, believing that he only hurt her
when she had ‘really upset him’. There was no consideration of how Mr Johnson’s response put Alice at risk and
she maintained a view that she could not have known that he could hurt Alice. A continuation of this belief would
be of high concern in respect of Ms Smith’s ability to protect a child from harm.
What is positive is that Ms Smith has commenced sessions with DVAP and is reported by the workers there to
be very reflective and beginning to make some positive change with regard to her thoughts around domestic
violence.
During the time of the criminal investigation into Alice’s injuries, Ms Smith began to see Mr Roberts, who she
knew from when they had been at school together. It was an emotionally vulnerable time for Ms Smith and she
reflects that she became involved with him because she felt low. Ms Smith describes that their relationship was
punctuated with lots of disagreements and she was upset by his ‘partying behaviour.’ Ms Smith herself began to
go out and drink more with friends which she now believes was a way for her to ‘cope’ with what had happened
to Alice. There are four reported incident of domestic violence between Ms Smith and Mr Roberts. Ms Smith
described that these all happened whilst drinking and that they argued to the point that neighbours called the
police. Police reports confirm similar circumstances to these incidents. Despite being offered support at this time
Ms Smith choose not to engage with services.
When Ms Smith became pregnant to Mr Roberts she claims that she was shocked and anxious due to her
previous experience with Alice. Although Ms Smith had regular supervised contact with Alice and was still very
much part of her life, Ms Smith claims that there was some security in knowing that she was not entirely
responsible for her. Ms Smith stated that the thought of having the full time care of a baby worried her and she
knew that she worried that she could not safely care for a new baby whilst with Mr Roberts continued to have a
‘fiery nature’. Ms Smith feels that Mr Roberts made her decision very easy in that he made his intention not to be
part of her life anymore very clear. At the news of the pregnancy Mr Roberts left and began a relationship with
one of her best friends. Ms Smith was angry at this but believes that it was defining moment for her which made
her seek out support from her Mum and to begin counseling. There has been some concern raised from my
conversations with Ms Smith about Mr Roberts in that she has told me that she still loves Mr Roberts even
though she worries that he has a bad temper. I would have concern that if Mr Roberts wanted to be back in Ms
Smith’s life that she would be vulnerable to enter into a relationship with him again.
Attempts to contact Mr Roberts for the purpose of this assessment have been difficult. I have made contact only
once and Mr Roberts advised that he had no intention of resuming a relationship with Ms Smith and he believes
that she should have a termination. Mr Roberts has plans to move to Kent where he claims to have family. Ms
Smith confirms that she has made no further contact with Mr Roberts and does not know of any plans that she
has.
There is no evidence to suggest at this time that Ms Smith has maintained contact with Mr Roberts and although
there is indication from both parties to resume a relationship given the feelings which ms smith continues to have
for him I would have concern. I worry that upon the birth of baby, Ms Smith could attempt to contact Mr Roberts.
When discussing how Ms Smith will ensure that her baby grows up with an understanding of their parentage to
support a sense of identity, Ms Smith was adamant that she and her immediate family would be enough for her
baby. Ms Smith would not engage any further with this discussion.
There is information on Mr Robert’s police record which raises question as to his suitability to have any
unsupervised contact with a child. Given the domestic violence which was apparent in their relationship and Mr
Robert’s criminal history, it would be of significant concern if Ms Smith did resume a relationship with Mr Roberts.
In addition given that Ms Smith’s relationship history indicates a pattern of domestic violence it would be of
concern if she entered into a new relationship and there will have to be further exploration of this and the impact
Assessment Record – EAST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE COUNCIL
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of it upon Ms Smith’s ability to parent. This would all have potential impact upon the stability, security and safety
of the newborn.
At this time Ms Smith advises that she is not in a relationship and has reduced her circle of friends as she wants
to be a good Mother to Alice and her unborn baby. Ms Smith currently lives in a flat which is part of a bigger
house which includes a number of other flats. There have been issues with other tenants and the police have
been called to disputes in the other flats. Ms Smith does feel secure in her property and as such has spent a
great deal of time at her mother’s home. The environment described would not be conducive to housing a
newborn and would add increased stress to the situation.
During a supervised contact with Alice, I have observed Ms Smith to be attentive and gentle in the care of her
daughter. There appears to be a good attachment with Alice seeking Ms Smith out in the room. In all of her
discussions about her daughter Ms Smiths presents as emotionally warm and able to understand the needs for
security and stability in her life. I have not made any observations of this contact which leave me with any
concern in respect of Ms Smith’s parenting skills and note that she presents as very able to meet a child’s
physical and emotional
Ms Smith is working with the Boston Mayflower project to secure a new property and she is hopeful that this will
happen very soon. In preparation for the baby Ms Smith has purchased various items and is budgeting to ensure
that she has money set aside for when baby is born.
Ms Smith is desperate to have her baby with her and wants the local Authority to support this however she
acknowledges the concerns which are based on her experience with Alice and the gravity of what happened.
When discussing this Ms Smith becomes very emotional and self blaming, stating that she should have read the
signs and should have left earlier. Ms Smith has sought counseling support which she hopes will assist her in
working through these emotions. Ms Smith states that she wants the opportunity to show that she has changed
and can care for her baby and in the future for Alice; as such she advises that she will take part in any
assessment of work as is seen fit.
FAMILY AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
Family and environmental factors which may impact on the child/young person and on the capacity of
the parent / carers to provide care. Family history and functioning, wider family, housing, employment,
income, family’s social integration, community services.
Ms Smith’s housing situation is not currently suitable to accommodate a newborn baby although it is evident that
Ms Smith has seen this and has taken steps to secure an alternative property.
As detailed within the previous section Ms Smith has made poor choices in relationships and at times in her life
when she has felt isolated and vulnerable she has sought affection from partners who have not been a positive
influence in her life. This resulted in serious physical injury to her daughter who has been left with significant
learning difficulties. Although it is noted that Ms Smith is engaging with individual counseling sessions and with
DVAP in an attempt to assist her making changes and different choices in the future, this has yet to be tested.
Having previously experienced difficulties in her relationship with her Mother due to Ms Smith’s choices in
partners and friendships, Ms Smith is now back in a secure and supportive relationship with her Mother. Having
met with them both on several occasions and observing them together I am confident that Ms Smith’s Mother
does have her daughter’s interests at heart but that at the forefront of her considerations is the wellbeing of
Alice. Mrs Smith is now supportive of her daughter’s pregnancy and advises that she plans to be with her every
step of the way. Mrs Smith has advised that if the assessment of her daughter concludes that her baby cannot
return home with her at birth, Mrs Smith would take on the care of baby with a hope to possibly reuniting Mother
and child in the future. Mrs Smith states that she was there for Alice and will be for the new baby and that they
will always be her priority. Mrs Smith lives a short drive from her daughter although it is hoped that they will live
closer when Ms Smith’s current housing situation is reassessed It is my conclusion that Mrs Smith would be a
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strong protective factor and able to provide a great deal of support to Ms Smith in any future plans.
Ms Smith has reduced her immediate circle of friends to two significant females, claiming that these are the only
friends whom she can trust. One of these friends is also a parent with a small child and the second has recently
discovered her own pregnancy. There are no recorded concerns with either of these friendships and no noted
intervention from any statutory agencies which would warrant any level of worry. In light of this Ms Smith
believes that they will both be a good source of support for her and she plans to attend various activities with
them at the local children centre. Whilst this may be a little idealised it is of consequence that Ms Smith has
shared interests with her friends and will be able to share experiences with them.
Ms Smith’s parenting of Alice was reported to have been positive and prior to the incident which took place there
had been no reported concerns with regard to any aspect of Ms Smith’s care of her daughter. I do not have any
concerns at this time in respect of Ms Smith’s ability to meet her unborn child’s physical and emotional needs
and the key risk which I believe to be of significance at this time would be Ms Smith’s ability to protect from any
potential harm from any future partners.
VIEWS OF THE PARENTS /CARERS
Do parents agree with / understand the concerns that have led to this assessment? What aspects of the
assessment do they agree/ disagree with? How would they like their lives to change?
Ms Smith has fully engaged with this assessment and she is clear of the worries of the Local Authority. Ms Smith
wants to have the care of her unborn child and states that in the future she would also like to seek the care of
her daughter Alice. There is some evidence that Ms Smith has made some positive change in her life although in
terms of future relationship choices and how she will respond when in another relationship, this has not yet been
evidenced.
Ms Smith does not disagree with this assessment and she supports the proposed plans. Since finishing this
assessment I have been unable to make any contact with Mr Roberts as he is no longer at his previous address.
The assessment has not been shared with him.
VIEWS OF CHILD/YOUNG PERSON
Does the child/ young person understand why the assessment is being undertaken? What are their
views about the concerns? What are his /her wishes and feelings?
Ms Smith’s baby is yet to be born but if they were able to speak I think that it would feel cared for given that Mum
has attended all health care appointments and has stopped smoking. Life is quiet and calm as there are no
arguments in Ms Smith’s life. The voices and sounds which baby is most accustomed to are Mum’s, Grandma’s
sister and two friends. Baby knows her Mum’s voice because this is the one which is heard most often and this
is the voice which sings to baby as they move around the house.
Assessment Record – EAST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE COUNCIL
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ANALYSIS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Summarise and prioritise risk and protective factors for this child/young person.
What’s working well?
1. Ms Smith is no longer in a relationship. This appears to have given her the reflection time and motivation to
prioritise herself and her unborn.
2. Ms Smith made early contact with midwifery services and has attended all ante natal appointments. Ms Smith
is reported by a number of different professionals to present as happy about the pregnancy. There is evidence
that Ms Smith has proactively prepared for the birth and sought items for when her baby is born
3. Ms Smith has a strong and supportive relationship with her Mother who reports that she will provide ongoing
emotional and practical advice and guidance to her daughter. My assessment of Mrs Smith is that she already
prioritises her granddaughter, Alice’s needs and her past experiences mean that she is confident to intervene
and contact relevant parties should she have any concerns with regard to the newborn.
4. Ms Smith has taken proactive steps in reducing her friendship circle to those with whom she has shared
interests and feels confident in their support.
5. Ms Smith has sought counseling to address some of the emotional issues she has and to improve her self
confidence and assertiveness. In addition Ms Smith is attending sessions with DVAP to develop her awareness
and understanding of domestic violence and the impact that it can have upon children.
6. Ms Smith has engaged with her local Children Centre.
7. Ms Smith has been proactive in seeking new accommodation
8. Reports of Ms Smith parenting knowledge and ability and to meet basic needs for other child are positive.
9. Ms Smith is making good physical preparations for the birth of baby and is taking good physical care of
herself.
Worries:
1. Ms Smith has previously been in two relationships both which were known to be violent.
2. One of these ex partners is responsible for causing significant physical harm to Ms Smith’s young daughter.
Whilst in this relationship Ms Smith did not see any indicators of possible harm and failed to protect her
daughter. There was concern at the time of the incident that Ms Smith offered conflicting information and was not
entirely open in her discussions with agencies.
3. Ms Smith still has a distorted view of domestic violence which would raise concern with regard to her
acceptance of both verbal and physical arguments and disagreement within any future relationships. Ms Smith
has not developed her understanding of the impact of domestic violence upon children.
4. Ms Smith continues to have feelings for the father of her unborn and it would be of high concern if this
relationship resumed. Previous domestic violence and concerns highlighted on Mr Robert’s police information
are worrying.
5. When Ms Smith is feeling isolated and trying to manage stressful circumstances she has in the past been
susceptible to making poor relationship choices and not recognising and responding to worrying behaviour in
partners. .
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6. When first pregnant there is evidence to suggest that Ms Smith continued to drink alcohol to excess even in
the knowledge that she was pregnant.
7.. Ms Smith’s current housing is not suitable to safely accommodate a newborn
8. Pregnancy was unplanned
Protective factors
1. There are a range of services and professionals with whom Ms Smith is having regular contact.
2. Ms Smith has a close and supportive relationship again with her Mother.
3. Ms Smith acknowledges her failure to protect her daughter, Alice.
WHAT NEEDS TO CHANGE IF THIS LEVEL OF RISK IS TO BE REDUCED?
If this is an update assessment has progress been made since the last assessment and what has led to
that change?
1. Ms Smith needs to develop a better awareness of the impact of domestic violence upon children.
2. Ms Smith needs to develop confidence to make more informed and safer relationship choices.
3. There needs to be further exploration of Ms Smith’s feelings with regard to Mr Roberts in order to inform my
assessment of the likelihood of her attempting to re-establish a relationship.
4. Ms Smith needs to move into more appropriate accommodation.
5. Mrs Smith needs to be support and monitor her daughter with her newborn to support assessment of her
ability to respond to the stresses of motherhood.
DOES THIS CHILD HAVE COMPLEX NEEDS WHICH REQUIRE CHILDREN’S SOCIAL CARE TO PROVIDE
THE ONGOING LEAD ROLE?
Alternatively does this child have additional needs which require a lead professional/team
around the child from agencies other than children's social care? Or, are these child's needs
currently being fully met by the parents/carers and universal services?
As a newborn, baby will be vulnerable and given the worries which have been highlighted there is a need for
Children’s Social Care to take a lead role in order to coordinate plans and services. Given the concern that baby
could be at risk of significant harm my view at this time is that a child protection conference should be arranged.
WHAT IS YOUR PLAN OF ACTION?
If this child is to continue to remain open to Children's Social Care, summarise what will be in the Child's
Assessment Record – EAST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE COUNCIL
Client ID:
XXXXXXX
Client Name:
Unborn Smith
Plan ?
What outcomes does this unborn/newborn baby need?
1. To live in a safe home. To continue to feel safe and secure with all main care coming from Mum. To hear and
smell Mum to secure healthy attachments
2. To be loved and prioritized by Mum and maternal Grandmother.
3. To have all of his/her basic care needs met.
4. To continue to feel cared for by Mum.
5. To have health needs met and be taken to the Doctor if poorly.
6. To live in calm, smoke free home.
Plan of action to achieve outcomes
1. Arrange pre birth case conference.
2. Continue to meet with Ms Smith and her Mother as part of the ongoing assessment of the case
3. Ms Smith to continue to work with the children centre, counselling service and DVAP.
4. Gateway meeting is to be held to discuss threshold and legal options available to the Local Authority based
on this assessment.
5. Birth plan to be agreed with midwifery services and contingency plans put in place for earlier birth.
6. Ms Smith to live with her mother upon birth of baby. Plans to be made in respect of Mrs Smith role and ability
to supervise this or to take on the full time care of baby if required.
Managers Comments
IN THIS SECTION MANAGERS SHOULD CONSIDER: what other information is needed, are the plans relevant
to achieve the outcomes, is the plan safe, who else should be consulted with and so on………
REPORT DISTRIBUTION
Child/Young Person Signature ______signed_______
Date__________
Worker Signature
_______ signed __________
Date__________
Parent/Carer Signature
_______ signed _________
Date__________
Parent/Carer Signature
_______ signed _________
Date__________
Manager Signature
_______ signed _________
Has report been given to parent/carer?
Has report been seen by the child/young person?
End of Report
Assessment Record – EAST RIDING OF YORKSHIRE COUNCIL
Client ID:
XXXXXXX
Client Name:
Unborn Smith
Date__________
Yes
N/A