Gatekeeping and assessing the needs, circumstances and wishes of a child (Part 1)

- The reasons why an assessment is being considered;
- The parental/family circumstances (strengths and challenges);
- Current and future risks to the child;
- The child’s needs and characteristics;
- The child’s wishes;
- Information provided by others in contact with the child, i.e. health staff, teachers, members of the community;
- Any current or possible access to necessary services and support mechanisms.
A multi-sectoral approach
Assessments should not just be carried out by professionals working in child protection agencies. All sectors that regularly come into contact with children have a role to play in assessments so that an holistic understanding of a child’s situation can be reached. This may include health, education, housing and, employment services and other social sectors, all of which are important for identifying the circumstances of a child and selecting, delivering, and coordinating the most suitable support to enable them to be properly cared for.It is important to ensure professionals and volunteers from different sectors are guided by shared protocols and standards. This helps with consistency, is easier to regulate, and reduces duplication and confusion. It requires designated gatekeeping mechanisms including clear assessment and other tools, guidance, and protocols, as well as legal mandates for any sector that regularly comes into contact with children. It requires personnel who are well trained to undertake assessments.In the next course step, we will consider a case study set in Rwanda where a non-governmental organisation has been working with local communities and government authorities to develop the use of assessments.Getting Care Right for All Children: Implementing the UN Guidelines for the Alternative Care of Children

Our purpose is to transform access to education.
We offer a diverse selection of courses from leading universities and cultural institutions from around the world. These are delivered one step at a time, and are accessible on mobile, tablet and desktop, so you can fit learning around your life.
We believe learning should be an enjoyable, social experience, so our courses offer the opportunity to discuss what you’re learning with others as you go, helping you make fresh discoveries and form new ideas.
You can unlock new opportunities with unlimited access to hundreds of online short courses for a year by subscribing to our Unlimited package. Build your knowledge with top universities and organisations.
Learn more about how FutureLearn is transforming access to education