how long are parenting assessments valid for?

[poundedskate7]

Hi, I have heard that a parenting assessment is valid for 12 months, but no information if this is still the case when the children are in long term foster care, is there a valid duration?

[Suzie, FRG Adviser]

Dear Poundedskate7,

Thank you for your post.

Parenting assessments completed in care proceedings are part of the evidence the court considers in deciding on the best outcome for the children’s care at the end of proceedings.

I am not aware of a defined time limit on the validity of a parenting assessment. However, parents’ circumstances and capacity can alter over time and significant change can be made that render the points made in the parenting assessment outdated.

You can read about how a care order can be brought to an end and what is meant by significant change here.

I would suggest that you ask the social worker and the independent reviewing officer to update you about how they view any current risks and concerns that would prevent the children being returned to your care in the longer term and what steps you could take to respond to any risks and how you can find the support you need to do so.

You could ask for a copy of the local authority’s reunification policy as a starting point.

I hope this is helpful.

Best wishes,

Suzie