I provide special guardianship assessments, viability assessments and connected persons assessments for local authorities in and around London.
Viability assessments
An initial assessment of a relative or family friend who has come forward to care for a child. It helps the local authority and the court decide whether a full assessment should follow.
Connected persons assessments
An assessment of a relative or friend who is, or may become, the foster carer for a specific child they already know.
Special guardianship assessments
A full assessment of a prospective special guardian, prepared for the court. It considers the carer’s ability to meet the child’s needs into adulthood, their relationship with the child, and the support they and the child will need.
Kinship care
Much of this work is with grandparents, aunts, uncles and family friends. I recognise the strengths that families bring, and I am honest about the challenges of caring for a child within the family network.