GIRFEC

GIRFEC (Getting It Right For Every Child) is the Scottish Government’s drive to improve outcomes for all children. SHANARRI is an acronym for the eight wellbeing indicators (see diagram) in the Health and Wellbeing curriculum, which aims to enable every child to develop and achieve.

Click on the diagram to find out more about Aberdeenshire’s approach to GIRFEC

*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 well-being 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

The GIRFEC approach has been tested and developed across Scotland since 2006. It is based on research evidence and the experiences of practitioners, families and children.

A report published by the Nuffield Trust found that the GIRFEC approach to promoting and improving wellbeing is leading the way in the UK.

*From Scottish Govt. website.