Ealing has developed four levels of need with descriptors for each level to assist practitioners in assessing needs and identifying appropriate responses. Ealing’s model is similar to those used in other London local authorities to enable a consistent approach to working on a cross-authority basis.
The following assessments are used at the corresponding level:
- Level 1 – All children and families: Universal level of need, response services are universal services.
- Level 2 – Low risk or vulnerable families: children with identified needs, showing early signs of vulnerability or the family’s needs are not clear, not known or not being met. This level is the threshold for initiating an EHAP as the need for early help through multi-agency support is evident. Response services are universal and targeted services.
- Level 3 – Complex needs: The family has complex needs that are likely to require longer term intervention from statutory and/or specialist services. High level additional unmet needs will usually require a targeted and integrated response.
- Level 4 – Acute needs: Children are suffering from or at risk of harm or abuse and require intensive support or protection. Or the family has acute needs requiring statutory intensive support. This includes the threshold for child protection requiring Children’s Social Care intervention.
