If you’ve received a call, letter, or home visit from social services, it’s natural to feel anxious or even scared. Many parents worry they’ll be judged or that their children might be taken away.
The truth is that in most cases, early contact is about support, not punishment. The local authority must check a child’s welfare whenever concerns are raised, but they also have a duty to help families stay together wherever possible.
This short guide explains, step by step, what happens when social services get in touch, what your rights are, and how to respond in a calm, confident, and informed way.
Why Social Services May Contact You
Social services (officially Children’s Services) usually become involved when someone reports a welfare concern, for example:
- a teacher or health visitor has noticed a problem,
- a neighbour or family member has made a referral, or
- the police or hospital have raised safeguarding concerns.
They are legally required under the Children Act 1989 to investigate if a child might be at risk of harm. This does not mean you have done anything wrong; it means professionals need to gather more information.
Remember: Early involvement often leads to support being offered, such as parenting classes, housing assistance, or mental-health referrals; not immediate legal action.
Before the Visit or Meeting
Good preparation makes a huge difference. Here’s what to do when you’re first contacted:
- Stay calm. Take a breath before responding. Being cooperative will help you.
- Get details in writing. Ask for the social worker’s full name, team, and reason for contact.
- Clarify what’s being investigated. You’re entitled to know what the concerns are.
- Gather evidence. Collect documents that show stability and good parenting (school attendance records, medical letters, certificates, positive references).
- Make notes. Write down your version of events and any questions you want to ask.
Get legal advice early. Speaking to a family solicitor ensures you know your rights and can be represented if needed.
Tip: You are allowed to have a friend, family member, or solicitor present when the social worker visits.
During the Home Visit or Meeting
This is your opportunity to show that your home is safe and that you are meeting your child’s needs.
What will usually happen:
- The social worker will explain why they’re visiting.
- They may ask about your child’s health, school, and routines.
- They might want to speak to your child alone or observe how you interact.
How to handle it well:
- Be polite, open, and honest, even if you disagree.
- Keep your answers factual and short; avoid speculation.
- If you don’t understand a question, ask them to rephrase it.
- If something is inaccurate, correct it calmly.
- Take notes (or ask permission to record key points).
Important: You can refuse entry, but this may raise concerns and escalate matters. If in doubt, call your solicitor for advice before the visit.
What Happens After the Meeting?
You’ll usually receive a summary or written report. Read it carefully. It should outline:
- what concerns were raised,
- what was said during the visit, and
- what actions (if any) are planned next.
Depending on what they find, social services might:
- take no further action if they’re satisfied the child is safe,
- offer Early Help or Child in Need support, or
- convene a Child Protection Conference if serious risks are identified.
If you disagree with something in the report, reply in writing to clarify or correct it.
Keep copies of every letter, report, and note; these may be vital later if proceedings develop.
Your Legal Rights and Next Steps
You always have the right to:
- Seek legal advice, and in many situations, you’ll qualify for free legal aid.
- Be present at meetings and contribute your views.
- Access information held about you (subject to child-safety limits).
- Challenge inaccurate records or unfair treatment.
If social services mention a “legal planning meeting,” “PLO letter,” or “care proceedings,” contact a child law solicitor immediately. Acting early can change the outcome.
Quick Checklist for Parents
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| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Stay calm and respond politely | Avoid reacting in anger or fear |
| Ask for reasons in writing | You have a right to clarity |
| Gather documents | Show positive evidence of parenting |
| Attend all meetings | Non-attendance can be misinterpreted |
| Take notes | Record names, dates, and advice |
| Seek early legal help | Don’t wait until court papers arrive |
Being contacted by social services can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be a disaster. Most situations improve through open communication and early professional advice.
By understanding your rights, preparing carefully, and showing cooperation, you can protect your family and help the process stay fair and constructive.
If social services have contacted you, or you’re worried they might, speak to our specialist family and child law solicitors today.
We’ll explain your rights clearly, guide you through every stage, and help you protect your family’s future.
Call ASA Solicitors on 01274 900 400
Email mail@asa.co.uk
FAQs
Why have social services contacted me?
Social services may get in touch if someone has raised a concern about your child’s welfare. This could come from a teacher, health visitor, neighbour, police officer, or hospital. It doesn’t automatically mean you’ve done anything wrong. Under the Children Act 1989, they are legally required to investigate any potential risk of harm. Often, the aim is to offer support, not take legal action.
