Social Care for Children
Children’s Social Care is part of the Children’s Services Directorate within Warrington Borough Council. The Directorate aims to ensure all children in the area are healthy, safe, enjoy their learning opportunities, reach their goals and make a positive contribution, as outlined in the Every Child Matters agenda.
Social Care provides certain services for our most vulnerable children and young people and their families, alongside other partner agencies. These services aim to provide early intervention for families on the verge of breakdown.
Assessments
In order to identify the appropriate services for families, we may need to work with them to complete an assessment. This provides a clearer picture of what help and support is needed.
If a child or young person can no longer live at home...
There are many reasons why a child may not be able to live with their parents or carers. If this is the case, the family usually makes alternative arrangements for their child and can access advice and support from the Social Care Team if required. However, in some circumstances assessment and approval will be needed, e.g. Private Fostering arrangements.
Social care will provide care provision where this is appropriate for the child or young person through fostering or residential care. There is a residential facility for children and young people in Warrington called St Katherine's Children’s Centre.
Safeguarding
There are times when Social Care must get involved with families to protect and safeguard children and young people. We have a legal and moral duty to investigate all allegations of neglect, harm or abuse.
Leaving Care
The Leaving Care Team works with young people in care from the age of 15 to support them and assist with their preparation for independence.
Fostering and Adoption
The Fostering Team and the Adoption Team provide short and long-term care for children who cannot live with their birth family.
Disabled Children’s Team
The Disabled Children’s Team works with children and young people up to the age of 18 years who have significant physical or learning disabilities, complex learning needs and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Respite Centre
There is a Respite Centre in Warrington which provides short-term care for children with disabilities.
Related pages:
- Private Fostering
- St Katherine's Children's Centre
- Safeguarding children and young people
- Leaving care
- Fostering
- Adoption
- The Respite Centre
Information for practitioners:
External websites:
Contact us:
Access Social Care (ASC)
Tel: 01925 444239
Email: asc@warrington.gov.uk
