Access Compass guide
Early Help (CFSS): getting support early
How to start Family Help/Early Help with Northamptonshire Children's Trust, including for disabled children.
Published by Access Compass · How we research and check guides
Who it's for: Parents & carers, Professionals
Not yet verified Last checked 16 Jul 2026. Always confirm details with the service before relying on them.
Step by step
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Choose a trusted professional
Speak to school, GP, health visitor or a worker you know. If that's hard, email CFSS@nctrust.co.uk and they'll connect you.
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Early Help Assessment (EHA)
Family Help is voluntary and normally uses informed consent to coordinate a Team Around the Family plan. It is not a prerequisite for a safeguarding referral. Where a child may be at risk of harm, practitioners may share proportionate information without consent when there is a lawful safeguarding basis, and should not delay or disclose the referral if doing so could increase risk.
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Young People's Service
Intensive support for 11–17s (up to 25 with disabilities/care leavers) on the edge of care, exploitation risk, missing episodes, etc.
Useful links
Source: https://nctrust.co.uk/support-for-children-and-families/