How to make a referral
Concerned about a child?
Please complete a Request for Help Form Updated October 2026
There is an alternative version of the form available without boxes and you can access this form by clicking here.
Before completing the form, please ensure that the child are aware of the information being shared in the referral and what is being requested. You also need to gather the thoughts and views of the parents and children/young people. Best Practice would be to show a copy of this referral to parents so they are clear about the information you are sharing unless to do so would place a child at risk.
When requesting support from Early Help or Preventative Services, please consider the questions below before completing the Request for Help form:
- Have you spoken with Compass before making this referral? email Compass@southglos.gov.uk
- Is there an EHAP (Early Help Assessment and Plan) open for this family? If not, please discuss with Compass prior to making this referral
- Have universal services/support been tried in the first instance?
- Have you referred to the SEND Local Offer?
- Have you looked at the South Gloucestershire Children’s partnership: The Right Help in the Right Way at the Right Time (Threshold Document)?
If a child or young person is in immediate danger then please dial 999 and ask for police assistance.
Safeguarding children is everyone’s responsibility
IF IN ANY DOUBT SPEAK OUT
The contact number for the Access and Response Team (ART) is 01454 866000
The single assessment for early help is designed to support families and professionals to work together to achieve the best possible future for children and young people.
We recognise that every family can benefit from some extra support from time to time and that it is most successful when everyone works together.
The single assessment for early help encourages everyone involved to develop an understanding of a family’s strengths and challenges. It considers the support needed in all areas that affect a child’s development – from health, education and social development through to housing and family relationships.
Further information for professionals:
More information on national and local policies and procedures can be found on this page.