Carer Viability Assessment
What is a Viability Assessment?
A Viability Assessment is a preliminary assessment process, usually required when a Local Authority is seeking to identify alternative child care arrangements for a child who is unable to remain with their parent.
The Viability Assessment is a concise, informative assessment, designed to gather all the necessary information, in a short time-frame to determine the suitability of the adult as an alternative carer and the feasibility of further assessment.
When is a Viability Assessment necessary?
A Viability Assessment is necessary when alternative care arrangements need to be considered for a child, for instance if a member of the child’s wider family puts themselves forward as a carer for the child.
A Viability Assessment is necessary to determine the potential carers’ capacity to meet the child’s needs in the long term as well as the immediate future.
What is the process?
If the Local Authority is working in accordance with the Public Law Outline (PLO) then the Avocet Independent Social Worker will carry out an assessment following the Department of Health Assessment Framework as well as considering all the points outlined in a Letter of Instruction.
The Viability Assessment in the main will consist of meeting with the prospective carers. If further detail is required then the Avocet Independent Social Worker will gain additional information about the child and their family from the Local Authority Social Worker.
Time-Scale
Depending on the degree of urgency Avocet can carry out a Viability Assessment and provide a written report, with clear recommendations within 7 working days.
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