Dear Mumtorthree
Welcome to the parents’ discussion forum and thank you for posting.
My name is Suzie, online adviser at Family Rights Group.
Congratulations on your pregnancy. It is unfortunate that rather than enjoying your pregnancy you are worried about children’s services becoming involved with you again. You say you were on child protection but signed off in September this year.
It is not clear from your post if being signed off means there is no longer child protection plans in place but child in need plans, or if children’s services had closed your case. If your case has actually been closed I can understand why you would be worried about a social worker coming to see you now.
Your midwife, because you had previous involvement with children’s services, has to make the referral. I understand why you are worried but it may that the assessment is simply to confirm that they do not need to be involved as nothing further has happened. It may be that your case was closed or stepped down to child in need because it was thought that you are able to manage with the children you are looking after now. An assessment may result if you receiving support if it is thought necessary.
When the social worker comes out to see you, it would be completely appropriate for you to ask her to explain what concerns they have and the reason for the assessment. I know that you have had previous involvement with children’s services but you may find it helpful to read our advice sheet,
An introductory guide to Children’s Services , for an explanation of the procedure when children’s services receives a referral.
Should you wish to speak to an adviser, please telephone our advice line on 0808 801 0366. The advice line is open from 9.30am to 3pm Monday to Friday.
I hope this is helpful.
Best wishes
Suzie