Pre-Birth

Research evidences that young babies are particularly vulnerable to abuse but that robust work carried out in the antenatal period can help minimize harm if there is early assessment, intervention and support. The purpose of this guidance is to ensure that a clear system is in place to respond to concerns for the welfare of an unborn child and to maintain clear and regular communication within and between partner agencies.

When there are concerns about the future safety or welfare of an unborn child, assessments should be made in a timely manner and plans should be put in place to support the parents, extended family and friends.

Every effort should be made towards offering practical support so that the baby can be planned for safely, whilst bearing in mind the sensitivity of the situation. Support should be respectful and convenient for the mother, partner and family to encourage their involvement in the pre-birth process, the focus of which is to support families to stay together wherever possible.

See:

Pre-Birth Assessment Multi-Agency Protocol

Parenting or pre-birth Assessment Support and Intervention Practice Guidance

Template for Parenting and Pre-birth Assessment

Supervision Tool – Assessment Checklist

Also see:

• Good Practice Guidance in Assessment, Planning and Intervention;
• Assessments and the ASTI Teams Policy;
• Our Practice - Children's Trust 6 Key Documents.

AMENDMENT

In February 2021, the Pre-Birth Assessment Multi-Agency Protocol was updated.