"Lead person" is not a job in itself, but a role that can be taken on by anybody working with children and families. A child or young person will usually have a lead person if there is more than one agency working with them.
It is important for a Lead Person to maintain appropriate boundaries with the child or young person and their family. They should be friendly but not a friend. They are not expected to solve all the family's problems or be available to them 24/7. (see page 17 of LINCS booklet)
A Lead Person has three main functions:
The Lead Person should be somebody the family trusts, who has the skills to communicate effectively with other practitioners.
Sometimes, for example in Early Support, the term "Key Worker" is used in preference to "Lead Person." To find out more about the Lead Person role (formerly Lead Professional), click here.
The Children & Young People's Trust offers free training to practitioners who want to learn more about the Lead Person role. Attending the training does not oblige you to become a Lead Person! To find out more click here.
