Getting it Right for Every Child

Getting it right for every child (GIRFEC) – gov.scot is Scotland’s national approach to improving outcomes and supporting the wellbeing of children and young people. GIRFEC aims to ensure that children, young people and families receive the right support, at the right time, from the right people, so that every child and young person can realise their full potential. As part of the GIRFEC approach, every child and young person has access to a Named Person who provides a clear point of contact for advice, support and access to services where required

GIRFEC is underpinned by children’s rights and places children, young people and families at the centre of decision making. Their views, wishes and experiences should be listened to and taken into account when planning support. GIRFEC is based on the SHANARRI wellbeing indicators: Safe, Healthy, Achieving, Nurtured, Active, Respected, Responsible and Included. These indicators help practitioners, children and families consider wellbeing and identify what support may be needed.

The named person function is there if needed, but children and families do not have to make use of their named person, and many children and their families will never need to do so.

• In primary schools the named person is likely to be the Head teacher or the deputy head teacher. In secondary school it is likely to a child’s pupil support teacher. These are members of school staff who already have existing roles in providing help and support to children and their families.
• If your child has complex needs and needs help from several different services, GIRFEC means that all these services must work together for you and your child. In these instances, a ‘lead professional’ will be agreed from within the network of practitioners who are working with your child and family and this person will coordinate the support for your child.

For more information on Getting it Right for Every Child in Dumfries and Galloway visit our dedicated GIRFEC website.

Local information can also be found on the Dumfries and Galloway Council website.

National information can be found on: https://www.gov.scot/policies/girfec/

For any local enquiries please email GIRFEC@dumgal.gov.uk