For Parents

An assessment can feel daunting. Knowing what to expect can make it a little easier.

If you have been told that an independent social worker will be completing an assessment with you, you may have lots of questions about what will happen and what it means.

We want you to understand the process, know what is expected of you and have a fair opportunity to take part.

What is an Independent assessment?

A chance to understand the whole picture.

Our job is to look carefully at the information available, spend time getting to know you and your family, and understand both the concerns and the things that are going well.

We are independent. That means we will listen to everyone involved, consider the evidence and reach our own professional conclusions.

We won't expect you to be perfect. We will expect you to be open with us and willing to talk about the things that may be difficult.

Assessments should be accessible.

People communicate, understand information and learn in different ways.

If you have a learning disability, learning difficulty, neurodivergence, communication need or anything else that might make it harder for you to take part, tell us.

We can adapt the pace, language and way we work so that you have a meaningful opportunity to understand and participate in your assessment

Needing an assessment to be adapted does not mean lowering the standard of the assessment. It means making the process fair.

Questions you might have:

Have you already made your mind up about me?

No. Our role is to complete the assessment and reach our conclusions after considering the information available and the work we complete with you.

Do I have to agree with everything you say?

No. You can disagree with information or professional views. We will want to understand your perspective and this can be reflected in the assessment.

What if I don't understand something?

Tell us. We would much rather explain something differently than have you leave a session unsure about what has been discussed.

Will my assessment definitely be positive?

We cannot promise a particular outcome. Our responsibility is to provide an independent and balanced assessment based on the evidence.

Have you been told S&G Assessments will be working with you?

If you have a question about your assessment or need to tell us about something that would help you take part, please get in touch.

You are allowed to ask questions.

You don't have to understand everything straight away. If you're unsure why we're asking something, what information we're considering or what happens next, ask us.

S&G Assessments

Independent Social Work Assessments

Company Number: 15423548

Get in touch

enquiries@sgassessments.co.uk

Enquiries welcomed from solicitors, Local Authorities, professionals and families.

Follow us