Social Worker and Midwife Decision Making Regarding Child Protection Risk and the Unborn Baby: A Qualitative Study

A newborn baby is vulnerable to abuse and neglect, the professional role may involve assessment before born. The aim of this paper explore perspectives experiences midwives child protection social workers regarding unborn babies within Northern Ireland. Data were gathered using four focus groups (14 16 workers) one Health Social Care Trust. data analysed in terms understanding risk factors forming a judgement. mental wellbeing pregnant woman, drug use, alcohol domestic violence, woman's childhood experiences, gestation period antenatal care attendance main risks identified. Observations, engaging with woman ‘soft intelligence’ key aspects appraisal ability recognise danger was an important moderating factor, perhaps formed part judgement heuristic assist making sense wide‐ranging information about diverse risks. ‘Explore[s] Ireland’ Key Practitioner Messages Identified included wellbeing, age, feelings pregnancy, attendance. Pregnant women unable dangers misusing illegal or prescription drugs, excessive consumption initiating/maintaining relationships sex offenders. skills involved engagement professionals' experience observations, use intelligence’.