Child Protection and Written Agreements

• Posted onMarch 2, 2026

Are Written Agreements in Child Protection Cases Effective?

Written agreements are often used in child protection cases where social workers and other professionals have safeguarding concerns. These agreements set out what parents are expected to do to improve a situation and reduce risks to children. However, serious case reviews have raised important questions about how effective these agreements really are. (Originally published October 2017, updated March 2026).

What Is a Written Agreement in Child Protection Cases?

In child protection matters, it has been common practice for social workers to ask parents to sign a written agreement.

These agreements are intended to clearly outline expectations placed on parents to safeguard their children and address identified risks.

What Do Written Agreements Typically Require?

A written agreement may ask parents to agree to a number of expectations considered necessary to protect children.

These can include requirements such as:

• Not consuming alcohol when caring for children
• Ensuring children attend school regularly
• Avoiding contact with an abusive partner

Why Have Written Agreements Been Criticised?

Recent serious case reviews, particularly following cases where children have died or been seriously injured, have raised concerns about relying on written agreements as a protective measure.

This criticism is especially strong in cases involving domestic abuse.

The Issue of Contact With an Abusive Partner

One requirement often included in written agreements is that a parent must avoid contact with an abusive partner.

This condition has been criticised because it is seen as:

• Unrealistic in practice
• Placing responsibility on the victim of abuse rather than the abuser
• Failing to offer sufficient support to help victims keep themselves and their children safe

What Do Social Workers Think About Written Agreements?

A survey of social workers conducted by Community Care highlighted divided views on the use of written agreements.

The survey found that:

• 68% felt written agreements were used more to protect the Local Authority than to support families
• Around two thirds believed agreements could be successful, provided expectations were clear and parents were genuinely working towards shared goals

When Can Written Agreements Be Helpful?

Written agreements can still play a useful role when used appropriately.

They can provide:

• Clear guidance on what is expected of families
• Transparency around Local Authority concerns
• A clear outline of what needs to change to address safeguarding issues

What Makes a Written Agreement Effective?

For a written agreement to be meaningful, several factors are essential:

• Targets must be achievable
• Parents must clearly understand what is required of them
• Parents must understand the consequences of non‑compliance

Why Enforcement and Support Matter

A written agreement has no force at all if the Local Authority does not take further protective action when the agreement is not followed.

Failing to act can:

• Leave children at continued risk
• Lead parents to believe the concerns are not as serious as initially stated

The Importance of Practical Support

In addition to written agreements, Local Authorities must carry out substantive work with families.

This may include:

• Parenting courses
• Domestic abuse programmes
• Drug and alcohol support

Written agreements should act as a framework for this wider support.

Are Written Agreements Worth Using in Child Protection Cases?

When used correctly, written agreements can be a valuable tool. When used in isolation, without enforcement or support, they can place children at risk.

Used as part of a wider safeguarding strategy, there is no denying that written agreements can be effective and successful.

For expert child protection and family law advice, you can contact WSP Solicitors’ local offices, servicing the whole of Gloucestershire, including; Gloucester, Stroud, Cheltenham, Tewkesbury or the Forest of Dean, or use the enquiry form on this page to request a callback.