Child & Family Assessments
Pre-Birth Assessment
Independent pre-birth assessments before baby arrives.
Confidential enquiries welcomeNationwide UK serviceRemote and in-person appointments
Overview
A pre-birth assessment evaluates the likely capacity of expectant parents to care safely for an unborn child where concerns have been identified by children's services or the courts.
OBK completes pre-birth assessments that consider parental history, current circumstances, mental health, substance use, domestic abuse history, support networks and the protective factors in place. Recommendations focus on what needs to change, what support is required and the realistic timescales for that change to be evidenced before or after birth.
Who this service is for
- Local authorities planning pre-proceedings (PLO) work
- Solicitors representing expectant parents
- Family courts considering interim care plans
- Voluntary agencies supporting vulnerable mothers
What happens next
From your first enquiry to the final report, we keep things clear, well-paced and easy to follow. Here is what to expect:
- 1
Background review
Analysis of social care chronology and any prior involvement with previous children.
- 2
Parental sessions
Direct sessions exploring history, current functioning and capacity to change.
- 3
Network meetings
Liaison with midwifery, mental health and family support services.
- 4
Risk & protective factor analysis
Clear, balanced analysis grounded in research.
- 5
Report & recommendations
Specific recommendations for the unborn child's care plan.
If you are unsure whether this service is right for your situation, get in touch and we will talk it through with you. There is no obligation.
Why choose OBK
Sensitive, rigorous work delivered within the tight timescales that pre-birth planning demands.
Frequently asked questions
When should a pre-birth assessment start?+
Ideally by 20-24 weeks gestation, allowing time for analysis, support and any pre-proceedings work.
Can the assessment continue after the birth?+
Yes, a structured post-birth observation phase is often included.
Looking for an independent assessment or report?
Speak to OBK Social Care Consultancy in confidence. We will listen, ask the right questions and explain how we can help.
Confidential enquiries welcomeNationwide UK serviceRemote and in-person appointments