Early help

Support offered before problems become serious. Voluntary, and usually the least intrusive route to getting help.

What it is

Early help is support provided as soon as a problem emerges, at any point in a child's life, before it escalates to statutory intervention.

It is co-ordinated through an early help assessment — locally called a CAF, an EHA or something else — and a plan agreed with the family.

Where it applies

Any family who would benefit. It is voluntary and requires the family's consent.

How it works

Usually a lead practitioner and a team around the family meeting bringing together school, health and any other services involved.

It sits below child in need and child protection on the continuum of need, and going through it does not mean social care will become involved.

What you can ask for

Ask for it. Families often wait to be offered early help and it can be requested — through the school, or directly to the council's early help team.

Ask what the plan is, who is doing what, and when it will be reviewed. An assessment with no plan behind it has not helped.

Ask what happens to the information. Consent is required and you can ask what will be shared with whom.

Where to get help

The school's DSL or pastoral lead, or the council's early help or family hub service. Family Rights Group for independent advice.