The City of London Thresholds of Need offers guidance on a multi-agency, whole-system approach to assessment, prevention and intervention for children, young people and their families. The guidance supports the use of the Common Assessment Framework (CAF).  The document is based on a ‘Continuum of Need’ model.  This gives consistency for professionals, sets out a dynamic and needs-led framework which, when used effectively, can match the child or young person’s needs with the appropriate assessment and provision.  

The Continuum of Need matrix is included in the London Threshold Document (Continuum of Help and Support) and is a guide to what level of support and intervention a family may need.  It provides practitioners with guidance as to the threshold on which decisions need to be based.

All London partnerships have been asked to adopt this matrix.  Pending agreement, this document is included for reference and should be considered alongside the City of London Thresholds of Need Tool – particularly when engaging with practitioners in other areas (who may have adopted this matrix in full)

By working together, all agencies of the CHSCP will develop flexible services which are responsive to the needs of children and families.  These will provide the right help at the right time and in the right place. Our early help arrangements will shift focus away from managing short-term crises, towards effective support being provided at an earlier stage.

For more information and practice guidance on how to make an early help or safeguarding referral and access to the City MASH referral form, click the button below

Guidance to help practitioners identify the signs of child abuse and neglect and understand what action to take.