Education written question – answered at on 8 November 2012.
To ask the Secretary of State for Education what assessment he has carried out on the potential effect on disabled children in need of his proposals to amend the Framework for the Assessment of Children in Need and their Families guidance; and what steps he has taken to mitigate any such risks.
holding answer
Our proposals to reform the assessment of children in need and their families are the result of a wide-ranging and independent review by Professor Eileen Munro of the London School of Economics (“the Munro Review”). Professor Munro looked at how the system could be reformed to keep a focus on the child's journey from needing to receiving help, covering both section 17 of the Children Act 1989 (children in need) and section 47 of that Act (children at risk of significant harm). Under section 17 of the Children Act 1989, all disabled children fall within the definition of a child in need. The legislative framework for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children in need (including children at risk of significant harm) remains in place.
The policy intention on which we consulted—to put the needs of individual children at the heart of assessment—seeks to improve the quality of assessments and ultimately the outcomes for all children. The consultation impact assessment set out that we believe the proposed guidance is likely to have a positive impact on any particular vulnerable child, whether or not disabled, under both section 17 and section 47. Further evidence on this issue is being provided through analysis of the consultation responses and ongoing evidence provided from the eight trial authorities who are testing a more flexible approach to assessment. This is why the Government are committed to undertaking further analysis of the impact on equalities, including disability, post-consultation.
We are still considering the responses received to the consultation—we are determined to get the revised statutory guidance right so that it will be the catalyst for change and put the needs of all individual children and young people back at the heart of assessment.
Yes6 people think so
No5 people think not
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