A section 47 enquiry means that Children's Services must carry out an investigation when they have reasonable cause to believe that a child living in their area has suffered or is likely to suffer significant harm.
The enquiry will involve an assessment of the child’s needs and the ability of those caring for the child to meet his or her needs.
The purpose of this investigation is to decide whether Children's Services should take any action to safeguard or promote the child's welfare.
The child’s parents will be interviewed, as well as the child (except if the child is too young).
Information from the child’s school, youth worker or doctor may also be looked at.
If Children's Services are carrying out an enquiry under this section, it is important that parents cooperate with the social worker if asked to do so.
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