GIRFEC: The GIRFEC Practice Model
Key Messages:
- Brings together core tools into one practice model applicable to all professionals
- The GIRFEC model requires everything to be looked at in the round as soon as possible to ensure that planning and action addresses those needs and risks
- If a specialist assessment is made and the analysis requires immediate action to keep the child safe, that is done and represents an immediate short term outcome
- However, other short, medium and long term needs and risks have to be tackled too
Building electronic information sharing solutions as part of GIRFEC practice
New version of the national eCare framework structured around the GIRFEC practice model will support:
- Electronic sharing of information (all children, all needs and issues)
- Controlled messaging of information about child protection issues
- The development of a chronology and/or a child’s virtual shared record
Key Messages
- Electronic information sharing is integral to the implementation of GIRFEC practice
- eCare supports good practice, it is an enabler not a driver
- The eCare programme is about all children, not just those who have child protection issues or multiple needs
The national implementation plan focuses on change across three areas:
CULTURE CHANGE
Learning together, co-operating, children at the centre
SYSTEMS CHANGE
Streamlining, simplifying, improving effectiveness
PRACTICE CHANGE
Appropriate, proportionate and timely help, shared materials, tools, protocols