This handbook is for use of front-line social workers, their line managers and other professionals. It provides information on a number of circumstances that may make children more vulnerable to harm. Practice Handbook 2 is divided into four sections, following the categories identified in Children First: National Guidance (DCYA 2017: 11–12): Parent or Carer Factors, Child Factors, Community Factors, and Environmental Factors. Chapters are provided under each of these headings on factors identified in Children First: National Guidance as well as some additional areas.

While most chapters begin with a short description of the content area, followed by some key messages from research and conclude with a practice note, not all chapter topics lent themselves to this format; a note is included in the relevant chapters. The Practice Handbook 2 is intended to be a practical resource for professionals in assessing child protection or welfare concerns where there are additional vulnerability factors.