Early Help Assessment
What is the Early Help Assessment and what is your role in it.
What is Early Help Assessment or EHA?
EHA is a simple way to help identify needs of children and families and make a plan to meet those needs. It is designed to be a shared tool which can be used by all agencies in Northamptonshire who are delivering early help. It is a standardised approach so that all children and families have the same experience of exploring their needs, strengths and challenges.
Who will use the EHA?
All professionals working with children, young people and families should be able to use and complete an EHA.
Who is the EHA for?
The EHA can be used to support children and young people between 0–19 years, including unborn babies and can also be used with consent up to the age of 24 where a young person has a learning difficulty or disability.
It does not replace any social care assessment or EHC processes for children with disabilities or additional needs.
Where can I find the EHA?
You can find the EHA, the EHA handbook and all associated documents online at https://www.nctrust.co.uk/help-and-protection-for-children/protecting-children-information-for-professionals/Pages/early-help.aspx
Any colleagues without web access should contact the Early Help Support Service for copies 0300 126 7000 (option 1 then option 2) or email CFSS@nctrust.co.uk
What EHA paperwork is there?
There is:
- The EHA form
- An EHA action plan
- An EHA review form
- An EHA closure form
You should never need any more than those four pieces of paper.
Do I need to submit an EHA?
Yes, but only the EHA and action plan. You should also submit an EHA closure form when you finish working with the family.
Do I need consent to do an EHA?
Yes, you do need written consent from the family or the young person.
What about Team around the Family?
The Team around the Family process continues and you can still make use of it when you need other professionals and services to help you help a family.
What about safeguarding procedures?
As always, if you are concerned that a child is suffering, or is at risk of suffering, significant harm, you must follow your organisations safeguarding procedures and contact the MASH on 0300 216 7000 (option 1 then option 1). Doing an EHA is not sufficient in these circumstances.
What training or further information on the EHA will be available?
There is an EHA handbook available that walks step by step through the process. This is available here https://www.nctrust.co.uk/help-and-protection-for-children/protecting-children-information-for-professionals/Pages/early-help.aspx
If you need help, advice, information or guidance at any time about the EHA or any part of the early help system, you can contact the Early Help Support Service on 0300 126 7000 (option 1 then option 2) or email CFSS@NCTrust.co.uk
Last updated: 11 January 2024