Getting it right for every child (GIRFEC)
This guide describes Scotland’s national approach to supporting and working with all children and young people – GIRFEC.
The rights and wellbeing of children and young people
The GIRFEC approach puts people at the heart of the services that support them. For most children, all help they need comes from parents, family, friends and the community. Where extra support is needed, the GIRFEC approach aims to make the right support is available at the right time.
Wellbeing indicators
A child’s wellbeing – how they’re doing physically, emotionally and health-wise – can be looked at against eight indicators. Every child and young person should be:
- safe
- healthy
- active
- nurtured
- achieving
- respected
- responsible
- included
Some experiences can have a negative effect on young people, which can impact in their wellbeing. Understanding how this happens, and providing the right support when they need it, helps them grow and develop.
Child’s plan
When a child or young person needs more support than is generally available, a Child's Plan will be agreed in consultation with child and their family. The plan will bring together any other support into a single plan to ensure a co-ordinated and tailored approach that meets the specific needs of individual children.
Child protection and safeguarding
All children in Scotland have the right to be protected from abuse or neglect. The Clackmannanshire and Stirling Child Protection Committee is responsible for child protection policy and practice across Clackmannanshire and Stirling.
Schools and nurseries also play a role in safeguarding and the prevention of abuse and neglect. They do this by:
- creating and maintaining a safe environment
- teaching children and young people about staying safe from harm
- how to speak up if they have worries or concerns
More information about GIRFEC is on the Scottish Government website.