Family Assessment & Support
Independent, evidence-based parenting and family assessments for local authorities and courts
Assessment Duration
Tailored timelines
Multi-disciplinary
Social work led
Court Ready
Evidence-based reports
Service Overview
We carry out independent, evidence-based parenting and family assessments for local authorities and courts. Our work focuses on understanding family strengths, identifying areas of risk or concern, and supporting safe, realistic care plans that keep children’s welfare central. Led by a social worker, therapist, and project manager, this model mirrors the best elements of residential parenting assessments — but takes place safely within the family home.
Comprehensive Service Features
Reverse Parenting (24/7 Community-Based Assessment)
A trauma-informed alternative to residential parenting assessments. We provide 24-hour in-home support and observation so parents can be assessed safely in their natural environment. This allows professionals to see everyday routines and helps parents develop skills without being separated from their child.
PAMs Assessment
A specialist assessment for parents with learning disabilities or cognitive needs. Our trained social workers use the Parent Assessment Manual (PAMs) to understand parenting capacity and provide practical guidance to help parents learn and apply safe care skills.
ParentAssess
A strengths-based, visual assessment tool designed for parents with learning disabilities, autism, or communication needs. Using clear language and visual aids, it helps parents understand what is working well, what needs improvement, and how they can make positive change.
CUBAS Assessment
A flexible, computer-assisted model used to assess parents’ ability to meet their children’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs. This approach supports reflective learning and adapts to different learning styles and family situations.
Viability, Kinship & SGO Assessments
We assess relatives and connected persons who may be able to care for a child within their extended family network. Our reports are court-ready and focus on safety, stability, and the child’s long-term sense of belonging. We also support Special Guardians through the panel and post-approval process.
Fostering & Adoption Assessments
Comprehensive fostering and adoption assessments for both local authorities and agencies. We prepare and quality-check reports for panel submission and ensure every prospective carer or adopter is supported and well-informed throughout the process.
Pre-Birth & Early Parenting Assessments
We assess expectant parents to understand strengths, risks, and areas for support before a baby is born. Where required, this extends into post-birth Reverse Parenting with 24/7 supervision and teaching to help parents build confidence and safe routines from the start.
Intensive Parenting Work
Hands-on, in-home support where parenting is under pressure or risk of breakdown. Our family practitioners work alongside parents—sometimes 24/7—to build safe routines, strengthen attachment, and prevent children from entering care.
Specialist Risk Assessments
We complete focused risk assessments where there are concerns about domestic abuse, sexual risk, fabricated illness, substance misuse, or mental health. Each report includes analysis, safety planning, and recommendations for multi-agency action.
Culturally Sensitive & Bilingual Assessments
We match families with social workers who share or understand their cultural and linguistic background. This ensures assessments are fair, respectful, and reflect each family’s identity, faith, and community values.
International Social Work Assessments
We assess extended family members living overseas to support kinship and permanence decisions. Our experienced assessors carry out culturally appropriate work across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas, following UK and Home Office guidance.
Private Law Assessments & Contact Supervision
We provide independent assessments in private law cases, including contact supervision where needed. Our reports focus on the child’s welfare, parental cooperation, and how relationships can be supported safely.
Immigration & Human Rights Assessments
Independent social work, psychological, and psychiatric assessments to evidence the impact of separation, health needs, or disability on families facing immigration decisions. All reports centre on the child’s welfare and the principle of keeping families together where safe to do so.
Independent Social Work Assessments
A full range of professional assessments by experienced independent social workers — including SGO, Viability, Parenting (PAMs, ParentAssess, CUBAS), Risk, Kinship, and Immigration. Every assessment is trauma-informed, quality-assured, and focused on improving outcomes for children.
Service Category
assessments
Core Features
- Reverse Parenting (24/7 Community-Based Assessment)
- PAMs Assessment for learning disabilities
- ParentAssess for cognitive needs
- CUBAS Assessment
- Viability, Kinship & SGO Assessments
- Fostering & Adoption Assessments
- +8 additional features
Complete Service Capabilities
Our comprehensive approach ensures every aspect of your family’s needs is addressed with expertise and care.