GIRFEC - getting it right for every child

Getting it right for every child (GIRFEC) is Scotland’s commitment to provide all children, young people and their families with the right support at the right time, so that every child and young person can reach their full potential. 

In Midlothian we want all children, young people and families to be supported to be the best they can be.  This is achieved through a nurturing, respectful and collaborative approach that promotes wellbeing, equity and inclusion.

Who is involved

Services that can provide help, advice or support include education, early years, health visiting, school nursing, additional support needs staff, educational psychology, social work, family support, NHS services or third sector organisations.

What GIRFEC means for you

  • You should be listened to
    Your views, your child's views and your family's strengths should be part of every discussion
  • Help should be early and proportionate
    You should get support when it is needed, for as long as it is needed, and it should match the situation.
  • Support should be joined up
    Services should work together, so you do not have to keep repeating your story.
  • Your child's rights matter
    Children and young people should be treated with dignity, fairness and respect.

What to expect from us

  • A clear first point of contact
    You should know who to speak to if you are worried. For school-age children this is often someone in school, such as the class teacher, guidance/pastoral support staff, support for learning staff or a senior leader. For younger children it may be your health visitor, nursery or family support contact.
  • A conversation about wellbeing
    Staff should ask what is happening, what is going well, what is getting in the way, and what would make a difference.
  • Your child's voice
    Children and young people should be supported to share their views in a way that works for them - talking, drawing, writing, using visuals, or with help from a trusted adult.
  • Joined-up support
    If more than one service is involved, professionals should share relevant information lawfully and proportionately, agree who is doing what, and keep you updated.
  • A plan when needed
    If support needs to be coordinated, a child's plan may be used. This should set out worries, strengths, agreed actions, who is responsible and when the plan will be reviewed.
  • Respectful partnership
    You should be treated as an important partner. Services should be honest, clear and respectful, even when there are difficult conversations.

Keeping children safe

If you are worried that a child may be at risk let us know - find out how on our child protection pages.

Useful resources

Related pages