Freedom of information (FOI) disclosure log

23549

Date Sent: July 15, 2026

Conclusion: Released In Full

Description: Please respond to the following: 1. MALD® is recognised as a specialist parenting assessment model, training programme, and toolkit developed by experts in neurodivergence, learning needs, and social work practice. Thousands of MALD® assessments have been completed nationally and courts throughout the UK direct MALD® Assessments daily. Please confirm whether your Local Authority’s social work teams have had the opportunity to explore the MALD® model? 2. Following the Family Justice Council’s 2025 Neurodiversity Guidance and the ongoing Family Law and Advice for the Neurodivergent Community (FLANC) campaign, please advise whether your social work teams are trained, confident, and equipped to work effectively with vulnerable parents, including neurodivergent parents? 3. The MALD® toolkit, developed by Autism and Learning Needs specialists, is designed for use from the first social work visit. Please confirm whether your Local Authority has reviewed this toolkit and whether it is being considered to support more accessible, needs led engagement with parents?

Attachments: FOI_Response_684.docx