Early Help in Enfield (Previously CAF)
Some children / families can get the support they need from services available to every one (for example, Health Visitors, GPs, etc.) These are often referred to as a 'Universal Services'. However, sometimes children / families may need more intense or specialised support. This is often referred to as 'Targeted Support' (for example, to deal with a family crisi or short-term health problem), or for a longer term arrangement (for example, when a child is born or diagnosed with a disability or learning difficulty.)
The Common Assessment Framework (CAF) was introduced through the Children Act 2004 and is a valuable process in improving services to children and families, by making sure parents are fully engaged with an assessment of their child's needs and agree to the agencies / services that may be involved in. Enfield have introduced a locally tailored and simplified process called 'Early Help'.
What difference will 'Early Help' make?
- It can lead to a quick solution helping you to identify your whole family's need.
- It will ensure everyone involved in supporting your family works together to make a difference, getting the right support to you as early as possible.
- We will listen to your views and work with you to find a way forward.
It is confidential?
- The information families provide will be shared with their consent. Sometimes for safeguarding reasons consent can be over ridden.
- Sharing information through the Early Help Forms (CAF) means that families will not need to repeat their story to different professionals.
- Information will be stored safely and securely in an electronic database.
How can I get help?
For further information, please contact the Community Parent Support Service on 020 8372 1500 or free phone from a land line on 0800 694 1066.