Getting it right for every child (GIRFEC) is based on children’s rights and its principles reflect the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).
It is for all children and young people because it is impossible to predict if or when they might need support. GIRFEC also respects parents’ rights under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).
The GIRFEC approach:
- is child-focused – it ensures the child or young person – and their family – is at the centre of decision-making and the support available to them.
- is based on an understanding of the wellbeing of a child in their current situation – it takes into consideration the wider influences on a child or young person and their developmental needs when thinking about their wellbeing, so that the right support can be offered
- is based on tackling needs early – it aims to ensure needs are identified as early as possible to avoid bigger concerns or problems developing
- requires joined-up working – it is about children, young people, parents, and the services they need working together in a coordinated way to meet the specific needs and improve their wellbeing
