GIRFEC in Edinburgh
Edinburgh has used the GIRFEC approach since 2009.
GIRFEC is not a form or a process. It is the way services come together to meet the needs of children and young people.
Core components
In practice, this means having a shared understanding of 3 core components.
- A shared, holistic understanding of wellbeing, led by the named person or lead professional
- A single, rights-based planning model for improving wellbeing when support across services is needed
- Services working together to deliver the Child or Young Person's Plan, led by the named person or lead professional
Staged intervention
In Edinburgh we use a staged approach. This helps with early identification and assessment of wellbeing needs. The approach covers universal, targeted and intensive planning.
Universal
Universal services of health and education are available to all children and young people. They provide a core level of support.
Targeted
Most children and young people do not need targeted support. Targeted supports go beyond universal provision. They may involve at least one other agency.
Intensive
Some children and young people need highly specialist support. This addresses their complex wellbeing needs.
Planning for targeted and intensive support
Not every child or young person will need a child's plan. A child's plan will be available if a child or young person needs extra support. This addresses their needs and improves their wellbeing.
A child's plan makes everything clear. Everyone involved knows what the concerns are. They know what needs to happen to improve the child's wellbeing.
We consider a child's plan when those working with a child or young person and their family identify that extra support is needed.
Child or Young Person's Planning Meeting (CPM/YPPM)
At this stage, we may hold a CPM or YPPM. The meeting is a forum for sharing everyone's views. This includes
- professionals
- the child or young person (if appropriate)
- family.
Everyone agrees on the assessment of wellbeing and related action plan.
At this stage, we may identify a lead professional. This is usually the professional who knows the family best. They coordinate and review the child's plan.
National Practice Model
The National Practice Model is a framework. It gathers information about the child or young person. It brings together 3 elements
- 8 wellbeing indicators (SHANARRI)
- My World Triangle
- Resilience Matrix
These elements support an assessment of wellbeing.
My World Triangle
The My World Triangle is a tool. It helps to understand a child or young person's whole world. We use it to explore strengths and challenges in different parts of their lives.
Resilience Matrix
The Resilience Matrix helps professionals organise and analyse information. We use it when there is a perceived risk to a child or young person. It helps to plan appropriate supports to improve wellbeing.