How you access Targeted Family Help is changing from 5 October 2026.
As part of the national Families First changes, professionals working with children and young people can refer families for Targeted Family Help using a short online form on the Children’s Services Portal.
Following a referral, a Family Help Lead Practitioner will contact the family directly and complete a Family Help Assessment with them. This means the family will have one assessment and one plan that can change as their needs change.
Targeted Family Help is for families who need social care support. It is not for general Early Help, which is managed within the local community sector.
Before making a referral, practitioners should seek advice from TESS and/or their Designated Safeguarding Lead, consult the Threshold Document, and make sure they have consent from those with parental responsibility.
Further changes are planned in early 2027, including a new single point of access for Children’s Services. Updated guidance and links will be shared with partners as they become available.