Child development - Introduction 1/4

Getting it right for every child (GIRFEC)

GIRFEC means:

the child or young person is at the centre of your work, and you understand what their unique needs are and how you can help
you use common tools, languages and processes to consider a child or young person's wellbeing, working closely with them, their parent/s and other professionals, supporting them where appropriate
you feel confident that you have the right information to provide the best support you can to a child or young person and their parent/s.

The GIRFEC approach is designed to be flexible enough to support all children and families, whatever their need, whenever they need it. It is about responding in a meaningful, supportive way, working with parents whenever possible. It takes into account that everyone involved with the family has an important part to play and puts the wellbeing of children and families at the heart of any support.

SHANARRI

To do this, eight indicators of wellbeing (SHANARRI) are used:

Safe

Healthy

Achieving

Nurtured

Active

Respected

Responsible

Included.

'SHANARRI'. These indicators represent the basic requirements that all children need to grow and develop. GIRFEC is based on an understanding of the wellbeing of a child. It looks at a child or young person's overall wellbeing so that the right support can be offered at the right time.