This protocol, developed for the London borough of Kingston with Kingston Local Safeguarding Children Board, is intended for use by staff across adult and children's services working with families impacted by the imprisonment of a significant family member. The protocol aims to; raise awareness of the needs of families affected by imprisonment, secure positive outcomes and equal opportunities for children, develop a shared understanding of families' needs across sectors, promote joint working and promote best practice across the local authority.
The protocol sets out its underlying principles (including the duty professionals have to safeguard and promote the welfare of children, the reduction of risks to children resulting from multi-agency working and the importance of a consistent approach across sectors), and summarises the national framework and policy setting. Guidance is set out for professionals working with families affected by imprisonment in Kingston in relation to identifying and engaging with these families. Included in the annexes are resources and phone numbers, brief guidance for schools and the referral pathway for the Families Apart project based in Kingston.
See Families Apart Protocol below:
