Social services and your family

Facing social services involvement with your family can be a daunting experience. Many families feel uneasy about this prospect due to stories they’ve heard from others or seen in the media. It’s important to understand that social services have a legal responsibility to protect and support the welfare of vulnerable children and adults. They offer a variety of services to children and their parents, often within the home environment and coordinated by a social worker. Our advice section is here to guide you through this process, whether it’s understanding Section 47 enquiries, knowing what to do if your child is taken into care, or seeking help if you are struggling with your child’s behaviour. We also provide specific support for dads and advice on maintaining contact with children in care.

Our social services advice articles

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We're here for families

If you are looking for advice or support on any aspect of your family life, we are here for you. We understand the impact of social services being involved with your family and why it is important to get support and be informed. You can call us on our helpline on 0808 800 222, send us a message on WhatsApp on 07441 444125, talk to us via our live chat service or email us at askus@familylives.org.uk

We have a dedicated section on our forums on all topics related to family life. Our forums are a safe space if you would like to share issues or dilemmas with others who understand what you are going through. Our forums are moderated 

How we can help

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Useful organisations

Family Rights Group are a child welfare charity bringing together legal and social work expertise, advice giving, policy and campaigning, and direct work with young people and families.

There For You Advisory Service provides support to individuals and families being investigated or involved with their local Authority Children's Services Department, as well as pro​viding additional family support. You can book an appointment with them for support.

Pause works with women who have experienced, or are at risk of, repeat removals of children from their care.