Overview of level four
The child’s needs are complex and enduring and a statutory response may be required.
If during the course of work with a child or young person it is concluded that a child or young person
is not making sufficient progress or the level of need is increasing in relation to care needs, then the practitioner should have a discussion with their organisations Safeguarding Lead or contact the Community Social Worker for advice. If the decision is that a Level 4 (Specialist) response is required in relation to safeguarding and risk the practitioner should complete a multi-agency referral form (MARF) and submit this to Children’s Single Point of Access (C-SPA).
If the needs relate to learning and development escalation can also be considered through the submission of an application for an Education, Health and Care (EHC) Assessment of need. Following the assessment, if assessment is agreed If the decision is that a Level 4 (Specialist) response is required a Statutory Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) may be issued.
When making a safeguarding referral to C-SPA or requesting an EHC Assessment of need. the Lead Practitioner is responsible for providing relevant documentation which may include Early Help My Plans, My Assessments and My Plan+, genogram, latest Team Around the Family review meeting minutes, tools completed which provide evidence of an increase in the level of risk (for example, CSE Screening Tool, Neglect Toolkit, Disability screening tool) which can be used to help inform the screening against the levels of intervention.
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