The tiered approach to providing adoption support services

In the event where a child is assessed to be at risk of harm or neglect, ACE will refer the family to the relevant Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub / MASH.

This will apply where:

• There has been a deterioration in family circumstances to such an extent that there are child protection concerns for the child/young person.
• A concern which relates to the ongoing care and well-being of a child which may indicate neglect.
• The child or young person exhibits acute or severe needs and /or is a child in need of protection.
• The local authority will lead on these referrals and ACE social workers may attend joint visits and provide consultation.
• Universal services will continue to be offered and therapeutic interventions will be continued where the child remains in the family home.