The PLO process has always been active before initiating care proceedings although, under different headings, it is not a new process. However, it gives more control, clarity, direction, and focus on particular issues of concern and how they will be addressed not only by the parents, and social work team but also by other professionals. Safety plans and care plans include all professionals involved in the child’s life, all of whom contribute different skills, and knowledge.

The PLO process can identify what services are in place to support and protect the child, if the plans are not working these will be identified sooner and addressed. The PLO process also allows the local authority to access much-needed services on a speeder basis than if requested through case planning procedures. Some outside professionals will not engage directly with the social worker, however, will if requested by a legal representative of the local authority.

PLO meetings are held regularly and are time-limited to ensure the plan is working, if not why not? This requires all agencies not just the social worker to work on the progress of the plan. If no progression is identified the decision would be made whether to initiate proceedings having demonstrated that the child and family’s individual needs had been addressed however the child remains at risk.

These are my experiences.

Social workers may have other case demands therefore clear focus is required after all the plans will be life-changing for the child and family.

The PLO process allows families the chance to understand the concerns of the local authority and why this course of action is being taken, it allows families the chance to work within clear safety plans to enable change to take place and safeguards put in place for the child. The process indicates whether the parents can and are willing to make changes to safeguard the child, it also enables the social worker to complete accurate assessments to enable decision-making, less delay, and meaningful plans to protect the child. I have worked within the PLO process, in my opinion, it is a clearer process not only for the family but also for the social worker.

Therefore social workers must have time to complete assessments that demonstrate a clear analysis of the information provided by the PLO process, social work assessments are evidence-based and should be taken seriously.