Child in Need Plans and Reviews

The Newcastle Children’s Services Procedures Manual outlines the process for developing and reviewing Child in Need Plans.

Following an assessment indicating the necessity for family support under Section 17 of the Children Act 1989, a Child in Need Planning Meeting is convened. This meeting, attended by the child (when appropriate), parents or carers, and relevant agencies, aims to create a tailored plan addressing the child’s developmental needs, specifying desired outcomes, required services, responsible parties, and timelines.

The plan includes contingency measures for significant changes and is subject to regular reviews—initially every three months and subsequently every six months—to ensure its effectiveness and make necessary adjustments.