Common Assessment Framework (CAF) course

CAF is a national initiative that requires all local authorities and their partners to ensure that the CAF is the universal tool for assessing additional needs.

Across the partnership, over 850 practitioners have attended CAF training all of whom should now be using CAF as their assessment tool. CAF, which is compulsory, is not simply additional work it is a new way of working. As part of the process to embed the use of CAF across the partnership we intend to achieve 1500 CAFs by the end of March 2009. 

Holistic assessment

The CAF provides a simple process for a holistic assessment of a child's needs and strengths, taking account of the role of parents, carers and environmental factors on their development.

Practitioners will then be better placed to agree, with the child and family, about what support is appropriate.

It will also help to improve integrated working by promoting co-ordinated service provision.

CAF training course

Lambeth Council runs a two day training course to teach CAF to practitioners.

The course usually runs from 9am-5pm each day and covers:

• assessment techniques (for identifying the needs of a given child)
• obtaining consent
• multi-agency decision making

Furthermore, it will prepare practioners to conduct the role of lead professional to children and young people.

Note: The course is run in conjuction with Lambeth Council partners such as the Primary Care Trust (PCT), South London and Maudsley NHS Trust (SLAM), Guys and St Thomas' NHS Trust and Kings College Hospital.

CAF course dates

The following course dates have been scheduled.

Cost

This course is free.

Cancellation/non attendance of courses must be given at least three working days before the course date; failure to give this notice will incur a cost of £25.

Bookings

If you would like to book a place on a course and/or require further information, please email caf@lambeth.gov.uk.

• Download booking form