St Helens Multi Agency Resolution Policy

All professionals working with children, young people, and families in St Helens must know how to act when concerns arise about poor multi-agency collaboration affecting a child’s progress or safety.

1. The Multi-Agency Resolution Policy, developed by St Helens SCP, provides a clear process for resolving professional disagreements, including issues such as meeting non-attendance, to safeguard and promote the welfare of children.
2. This policy does not replace statutory complaints processes within partner agencies.
3. It must not delay safeguarding action, if a child is at immediate risk, practitioners must follow standard safeguarding protocols without hesitation.
4. For looked-after children, concerns should be directed to the Independent Reviewing Officer (IRO). For Child Protection Conferences, consult the Child Protection Chair.
5. The escalation procedure supports timely resolution and guides staff on how to escalate concerns appropriately.

To help monitor and improve the resolution process, we ask that all stages of challenge, especially those resolved early are shared with us. This allows the partnership to gather data on areas of discussion and assess how effectively the system is working.

 All matters related to the Multi-Agency Resolution process should be sent to: scpescalations@sthelens.gov.uk 

Policy Update – June 2025

As of June 2025, the Multi-Agency Resolution Policy and associated form have been updated. All professionals are expected to read and fully understand the revised policy, as it outlines critical procedures for resolving professional disagreements and ensuring the safety and welfare of children.

St Helens Multi Agency Resolution Policy

St Helens Multi Agency Resolution Form