Parental Capacity Assessments
Thorough, evidence-based parental capacity assessments conducted with sensitivity and rigour — supporting decision-making in the best interests of the child.
What a Parental Capacity Assessment Is
An independent, evidence-based assessment
A parental capacity assessment is a structured, professional evaluation of a parent's or carer's ability to meet a child's needs — now and into the future. It examines the quality of the parent-child relationship, the parent's understanding of the child's needs, and their capacity to provide safe, consistent, and nurturing care.
HAPii's assessments are independent, attachment-informed, and grounded in over two decades of clinical practice. They are conducted with respect for all parties, while maintaining an unwavering focus on the child's welfare and best interests.
When a parental capacity assessment may be required:
- Child welfare or protection proceedings
- Care order applications or reviews
- Reunification planning following a period in care
- Contested contact or residence disputes
- Adoption or long-term care planning decisions
- Kinship care assessments
- Where Tusla or a court requires an independent professional opinion
What the Assessment Examines
The parent-child relationship
Direct observation of parent-child interactions across multiple sessions, examining emotional attunement, responsiveness, warmth, boundary-setting, co-regulation, and the quality of the attachment relationship.
Parenting capacity and understanding
Structured interviews exploring the parent's understanding of the child's developmental and emotional needs, their insight into the impact of any past harm, their ability to prioritise the child's needs, and their capacity for change.
Risk, protective factors, and support
A balanced analysis of risks and strengths — including the parent's own history, current circumstances, mental health, relationships, support networks, and engagement with professional guidance and intervention.
The Assessment Process
Initial consultation
Clarification of the referral question, scope of assessment, required documentation, timelines, and fees. All parties are informed of the process and their rights before work begins.
Information gathering
Review of relevant documentation including court directions, care plans, Tusla records, previous professional reports, and any other material relevant to the referral question.
Direct assessment
Structured interviews with the parent(s), observation of parent-child interactions, and where appropriate, age-suited consultation with the child — conducted across multiple sessions.
Report and recommendations
A comprehensive, court-ready written report presenting findings, analysis, and clear, evidence-based recommendations — completed within agreed timelines.
The Assessment Report
A comprehensive, court-ready report includes:
- Background and referral context
- Summary of documentation reviewed
- Findings from interviews and observations
- Analysis of parenting strengths and areas of concern
- Consideration of the child's expressed or observed views
- Risk and protective factor analysis
- Evidence-based conclusions and recommendations
Recommendations may address:
- The child's future care arrangements
- Suitability for reunification or continued placement
- Contact frequency, structure, and supervision requirements
- Therapeutic supports recommended for the parent
- Conditions or timescales for review
- Safeguarding considerations
Reports are written in clear, professional language suitable for social workers, solicitors, courts, or Tusla.
Fees & Referral
Fees
Fees are agreed on a case-by-case basis, reflecting the scope and complexity of the assessment, number of parties involved, documentation requirements, and whether court attendance is required.
An initial consultation will clarify the proposed plan, timeline, and costs before any work begins.
Payment terms:
- 50% deposit on agreement of plan
- Balance invoiced on report delivery
- Invoices and receipts provided
Referral Process
- Complete and return the HAPii Referral Form.
- HAPii acknowledges receipt within 2 working days and confirms suitability and availability.
- An initial consultation is arranged to clarify scope, timelines, and fees.
- Contract issued before any assessment work begins.
Required documentation:
- Referral letter outlining the assessment question
- Court direction (if applicable)
- Signed consents from all relevant parties
- Existing reports and relevant documentation
- Current care plan (if applicable)
Ready to make a referral?
Get in touch and explore how HAPii's Parental Capacity Assessment can support your case, family, or professional network.