A Family Assessment Centre provides a safe, structured environment where families can live together while their parenting and support needs are assessed. The aim is to help inform decisions about a child’s future care and living arrangements.

These services support parents, carers and families who need assessment, often as part of local authority or court proceedings, to better understand their ability to safely care for their child.

Families live at the centre while experienced staff observe day-to-day routines and interactions in a calm, realistic setting. This helps build a clear picture of family dynamics, parenting strengths and areas where support may be needed.

The length of an assessment varies depending on individual circumstances, but all assessments are structured, time-bound and focused on providing clear outcomes.

Families are supported by skilled residential teams who provide guidance, structure and encouragement. Where appropriate, additional input from clinical and therapeutic professionals is available through Connected Support.

Yes. While the assessment is a key focus, families are supported throughout with compassion, respect and clear guidance to help them engage positively and demonstrate their abilities.

Assessments are conducted with fairness, sensitivity and clarity. Staff focus on understanding parenting capacity, relationships and the child’s needs, always prioritising safety and wellbeing.

Observations are carefully recorded and used to produce detailed, evidence-based reports. These reports support decision-making by local authorities and the courts.

Yes. Families are kept informed at every stage, including expectations, progress and outcomes, helping ensure transparency and understanding throughout.

Referrals are typically made by local authorities, social workers or the courts when an assessment is required to inform decisions about a child’s care.