Our Assessment

Structured observations
Targeted interventions
Evidence-based outcomes

Our Three-Phase Assessment Process

Phase One:

Observing Baseline Parenting

Initial 24-hour observation period establishin baseline parenting skills, knowledge, and settling into program. Information gathered is used to develop a tailored family assessment plan and daytime observation progression.

Night assessment
Facets 1 & 2 of CUBAS
Risk assessment
Tailored family plan

Phase Two:

Individual Coaching

Focused coaching and support to address obstacles and strengthen parenting capacity. Tailored weekly actions are set and reviewed.

Tailored coaching sessions
Weekly review meetings
Identify needs and set actions
Mid-way review at week 7

Phase Three:

Evaluating Change & Capacity

Evaluating sustained progress and potential for independent living. Observations focus on changes in parenting capacity without prompts, leading to final assessment report.

Longer-term observation
Assess sustained progress
Final assessment report
Plan for future support

The average residential family assessment lasts 12–13 weeks.

Where a newborn is involved, formal assessment may begin once the child has reached six weeks of age, in line with best practice and recognition of the postnatal period and early attachment development.

OUR ASSESSMENT FRAMEWORKS

Our assessment approach is informed by CUBAS (Child and User Based Assessment System), a robust and evidence-based framework designed to support clear, balanced and defensible decision-making in family proceedings.

Key Strengths:

Produces comprehensive, court-ready reports supporting Local Authorities and the Court
Ensures parents are assessed fairly, including those with learning needs or additional challenges
Focuses on whether a parent can be a “good enough” parent with appropriate support
Uses tailored, non-one-size-fits all approaches to assess

ParentAssess is a nationally recognised framework
used by Local Authorities; family courts, social work
teams, and residential assessment teams across the UK.

Key Strengths:

Uses a clear, structured assessment model aligned with relevant case law and best practice guidance
Assesses the parent's ability to meet the needs of the child, considering risk factors and support networks
Employs a traffic light (Red, Amber, Green) system to clearly identify strengths and risks in an accessible way
Produces clear, court-ready and defensible reports for Local Authorities and Courts

Clear. Structured. Defensible

Transparent assessment process

Evidence-backed recommendations

Child-focused safeguarding outcomes

Trusted for court and care planning decisions