Getting it right for every child (GIRFEC): practice guidance 2 – role of the named person

4. The named person

Scottish Government's commitment to the UNCRC is built on practical foundations, including through the universal services of health and education. Children, young people and families need to know who they can contact when they need access to relevant support for their own or their child or young person's wellbeing. Within the GIRFEC approach, these foundations are carried out through the role of a named person who is able to provide a clear point of contact within universal services, if a child, young person or family want information, advice or help.

The support of a named person is available to all children, young people and their families. However, there is no obligation on children, young people and families to accept the offer of advice or support from a named person.

A decision not to access this support at any particular time does not prevent support being accessed in future. Likewise accepting support at any particular time does not create an obligation to continue to accept support. Local arrangements and the term used to describe this role or function may vary from area to area.

The intention is to repeal Parts 4 (named person) and 5 (child's plan) of the Children and Young People (Scotland) Act 2014. These parts of the Act were never commenced, and are therefore not implemented or currently in force. The commitment remains to deliver these core components of GIRFEC within existing frameworks. As such, the policy approach recognises that the role of named person is provided by the relevant NHS health board, Integration Joint Board/Health and Social Care Partnership or local authority area in accordance with local arrangements in exercise of existing powers. It is for the local authority and health board to determine how children and young people should be supported through the role of the named person and to take responsibility for local arrangements. Children's Services Planning Partnerships should have oversight of local GIRFEC arrangements to support a joined-up whole system approach.