This data collection is comprised of: (1) written recordings of Local Authority social workers' meetings with children and families where there are concerns regarding the safety and wellbeing of the children and (2) transcripts of audio recorded interviews with social worker pre and post the meetings with children and their families. This study poses the question: How do social workers communicate with children in a range of practice contexts and how do the social workers and children experience these encounters?The qualitative research will take place in two practice settings to encompass a range of key social work tasks with children: firstly, frontline referral and assessment teams, where relationships with children may have to be developed rapidly, and secondly, looked after children's teams, where there is the potential for longer term relationships. In phase 1, the team will accompany social workers in their daily work and observe at least 80 meetings between social workers and children in home visits in the four UK nations. In phase 2, the team will video meetings with looked after children and use the videos to engage children and practitioners in reflections about how to improve communication. Findings from the project will be used to develop training tools for practitioners. The research will generate important new knowledge that will enhance the quality of social work education, practice and policy and in so doing improve children’s experiences of practice and practice outcomes. The project team are guided by a group of care experienced young adults.

The research involved ethnographic observation in Local Authority social work child care teams in the four UK nations. The teams were identified by the Local Authorities and the team social workers negotiated access to the children and families who were subsequently observed. The data are comprised of: - written recordings of Local Authority social workers' meetings with children and families where there are concerns regarding the safety and wellbeing of the children - transcripts of audio recorded interviews with social worker pre and post the meetings with children and their families.