Written question asked by Martin Smyth (Ulster Unionist Party) on Thursday, 3 February 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 8 February 2005. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Basildon (Labour) on Tuesday, 8 February 2005 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will issue regional guidance on the structure and content of trust family and childcare social work file records.

Answer: Rev. Martin Smyth: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will issue regional guidance on the structure and content of trust family and child care social work file records. [214824] Angela Smith: The Department has no plans to issue regional guidance on the structure and content of Trusts' family and child care social work records. The Department provides, through the Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 and its associated regulations and guidance, a comprehensive framework for case recording purposes. In addition, a range of Standards developed by the Social Services Inspectorate also addresses case recording to ensure that well-structured case files and good recording practices are promoted. It is important that social workers' professional practice ensures that they record their involvement with children, their parents/carers and the multi-disciplinary team with which they work.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 430 c1492W; 214824
Session: 2004-05
Subjects: Children Disclosure of information Data protection Carers Northern Ireland Social work
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk