Child protection plan
A plan made for a child judged to be at risk of significant harm. Reviewed at child protection conferences. The local authority leads the plan.
In plain English
A plan made for a child judged to be at risk of significant harm. Reviewed at child protection conferences. The local authority leads the plan.
Why it matters
A child protection plan signals serious concern but not removal from home. It sets out what each agency will do and what the family must do to reduce risk. Plans are reviewed regularly and end when risk reduces.
What to do
Parents and carers
Ask for the plan in writing, who the key worker is, and what you can expect at each review.
This is practical educational content to support families. For case-specific concerns about a child's safety, contact the NSPCC helpline on 0808 800 5000 or your local safeguarding team.
Last reviewed: 2026-05-17