The Getting It Right for Every Child (GIRFEC) framework is rooted in the principles of children’s rights. It reflects Scotland’s commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), ensuring that every child’s rights are respected, protected, and fulfilled.
What Are Children’s Rights?
Children’s rights, as outlined in the UNCRC, include the right to:
- Be safe and protected from harm.
- Access education and healthcare.
- Be heard and have their opinions considered.
- Develop and thrive in a supportive environment.
GIRFEC incorporates these rights into its framework, ensuring they are central to decision-making for every child.
How GIRFEC Supports Children’s Rights
- Child-Centred Approach: GIRFEC puts the child at the heart of every decision, prioritising their needs, views, and wellbeing.
- Listening to Children: The framework ensures that children’s voices are heard and valued in discussions about their care and support.
- SHANARRI Wellbeing Indicators: By addressing safety, health, inclusion, and other aspects of wellbeing, GIRFEC ensures children’s rights are respected holistically.
Why This Matters
Aligning GIRFEC with children’s rights ensures that every child in Scotland is treated with dignity, fairness, and respect. It recognises that children are individuals with unique needs and aspirations, and it works to eliminate barriers that might prevent them from reaching their full potential.
A Rights-Based Framework
By integrating children’s rights into GIRFEC, Scotland has created a system that not only supports children’s wellbeing but also champions their voices, empowering them to play an active role in shaping their own future.
