Children who move from one authority’s area to another

2. Children to Whom This Protocol Applies

2.1 When a child in need moves between Local Authority areas it is essential that the transferring authority (i.e. the one providing a service and holding information regarding the child and its family) notify the receiving authority (i.e. the one to which they move) of their concerns and the nature of their involvement and plans – and do so in accordance with this protocol and with existing information sharing protocols.

2.2 This protocol applies to any child who is currently

1. 
   •Subject of a Child Protection Plan, or has been in the last six months.
   

1. 
   •Subject of a Child in Need Plan.
   

1. 
   •Subject of enquiries under Section 47 or Section 37 of the Children Act 1989 – including an unborn child.
   

1. 
   • Subject of Police Protection, an Emergency Protection Order or a Prohibited Steps Order.
   

1. 
   • Formally assessed as a Child In Need under section 17 of the Children Act 1989.
   

1. 
   • Subject of an Initial or Core Assessment.
   

1. 
   •Looked After - whether subject of a Care Order or Interim Care Order, or accommodated under section 20, or currently subject of Interim Care Proceedings.
   
2. 
   
   

• Privately fostered.

1. 
   • Assessed as being at risk of significant harm.
   

1. 
   •Subject of an allegation or concern in relation to an adult who works with children.
   

3. Guidance

3.1 Much of this guidance is addressed to staff in children’s social care. However, all involved agencies should ensure that they give timely and appropriately comprehensive information to their counterparts in other areas when a child or family moves. Additional information is provided for health and education professionals at the end of this guidance.