§ The Countess of Marasked Her Majesty's Government:
What guidance they will give to local authorities about the review of cases where children have been placed on "at risk" registers as a consequence of disputed medical evidence, even though that evidence may not have been tested in the courts. [HL1994]
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Education and Skills (Baroness Ashton of Upholland)We have no plans to issue further guidance to local authorities which relates to the review of children who have been placed on the child protection register as a consequence of disputed medical evidence which may not have been tested in the courts.
The local authority circular, LAC(2004)5, which was issued on 25 February 2004, provided guidance to councils about the action needed in the light of the judgment of the Court of Appeal in the criminal case of R v Angela Cunnings. This included guidance in respect of children whose final care orders are in place and the finding of significant harm turned on disputed medical evidence.
202WAThe Government's child protection guidance, Working Together to Safeguard Children (1999) sets out clearly when a child should be placed on the child protection register and the review process which should follow registration. It emphasises that the purpose of the child protection review is to review the safety, health and development of the child against intended outcomes set out in the child protection plan.