When considering a family and friends care arrangement for a looked after child, social workers should encourage potential carers to carry out a Family and friends care self-assessment This can help them explore their skills, knowledge and motivation to care for the child so that they can make an informed decision on progressing to assessment. 

Social workers should give a copy of the guidance on viability assessments and SGO assessments to any family member who is being considered as an alternative carer for a looked after child. The guidance explains the process and the areas covered and how these assessments are used by the court.

Social workers carrying out assessments of family and friends carers can refer to the following documents for information and advice on assessing the suitability of potential carers and the likely durability of the proposed arrangements.

Family and friends assessment practice guidance

RIP family and friends assessment guidance

It can be difficult maintaining court deadlines for care proceedings when family and friends care arrangements are being pursued and assessments carried out. The courts have therefore issued  guidance on the timetable for completing family and friends assessments to help social workers.

Social workers may wish to assess the suitability of a family and friends carer to supervise contact between the child and birth parent. The Nagalro assessment tool can be used for this.