Q: There is a lot going on in my life and I am worried about how it is affecting my child. What can I do?
A: You do not have to deal with things on your own. There is help out there! Different organisations can offer help with different things. To find out what is available and how they can help you, it might be worth asking for a CAF assessment to see what other agencies can do to help you. If you have a child in your class who you believe is struggling with their social, emotional, physical development, please discuss your concerns with the parent and explain how a CAF may help.
Q: What is CAF?
A: CAF stands for common assessment framework – The CAF involves listening to you and your child's needs as well as seeing what is working well in your child’s life. By working together with you, we can help you and your child receive the right support at an early stage, before a small need grows into a larger one.
Q: How does it work?
A: CAF is voluntary – you and your child will be involved. If you agree, a worker will ask you and your child some questions. Working with you, they will find out what support your child might need. The information is recorded on a simple form and you will be given a copy of it. Older children may feel able to discuss their situation with a worker. Based on the information you and your child provide, all those who can help you or your child will create an action plan and work together to provide the support your child needs. Only workers who need to know about a child will have information shared.
Q: How do I access a service?
A: To find out about local services and support for children, young people and families across the county, telephone the Suffolk Families Information Service on 0845 60 800 33. See also the Suffolk County Council website Common Assessment Framework section.