2. 6 scenarios

Scenario 2: Providing information and resources

Read the situation below and choose the best response.

You are a social worker who has carried out an assessment on a brother and sister aged seven and three. They are being looked after by their grandmother who is struggling to cope after their mother went to prison. Unfortunately, they are not eligible for services as you do not have concerns that the children are in need or are at risk in any way. Do you:

  • Suggest you refer the youngest child to the Children's Centre to support the child (and grandmother), suggest contacting the school to enable the child to receive support and also find materials for teaching staff to use to help children come to terms with what has happened?
  • Apologise and explain there is nothing you can do on this occasion, but to come back if the situation deteriorates?
  • Explain there is nothing you can do but try to find information or advice to help the family, such as the telephone number for the National Prisoners' Families Helpline and other leaflets or materials?