What happens after the conference will depend on the outcome.

You are entitled to receive help from a Solicitor whether or not you agree with any action which Social Services takes concerning your child. This is especially important if Social Services decides to go to court to ask for an Order allowing them to remove your child from home, or to visit your home to supervise the care of the child.

It is most important that you should have the help of a Solicitor in court. A list of Solicitors in your area, specialising in child care work, can be obtained from your local Citizen's Advice Bureau.

If your income and savings are below a certain level you may be entitled to Legal Aid to pay for work which the Solicitor does for you. You should ask about this on your first visit to the Solicitor.

Frequently asked questions

Can I appeal or complain about the conference?

You can complain about the process of the Conference, i.e. - the way in which it was conducted. The Area Child Protection Committee has a Child Protection Conference complaints procedure and your Social Worker will help you use it.

What is the Child Protection Register?

Click here to find out what it means to have a child entered in the Child Protection Register.