NSF for Children, Young People & Maternity Services

The National Service Framework launched on 30 September 2005 sets out the quality of services that children, young people and their families have a right to expect and receive in Wales. Children, parents and carers have all been involved in drafting the Framework.

The development of the Children's NSF began in September 2002 with the aim of improving quality and equity of service delivery through the setting of national standards. The framework has been developed as a partnership between health and social care with links to education, housing, leisure, the voluntary sector and other stakeholders including parents/ carers, children and young people.

The overall aim of the Children's NSF is that "all children and young people achieve optimum health and well being and are supported in achieving their potential". The scope of the Children's NSF includes all children and young people from pre-conception to 18th birthday, for whom NHS Wales and local social services authorities have a responsibility. Special consideration will be given for transition management into adult services beyond the 18th birthday for those requiring support services.

The framework contains 21 standards and 203 key actions, which are based on the 42 Articles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Assembly's seven core aims for children and young people.

A Self-Assessment Audit Tool has been designed as part of a performance measurement system for the Children's NSF for use by all statutory organisations that deliver services for children and young people, including the delivery of maternity services.

Press Release:

The NSF for Children was launched on 30 September 2005 by First Minister Rhodri Morgan and the Children's Minister, Jane Hutt, at the Children in Wales conference.

The First Minister said:

"There is nothing that is more important to Wales' future than our children, and the value we place on high standards for our children's services reflects that ambition. The future prosperity and success of Wales lies with the young people and children of today – and these standards are a testament to our commitment to the children of Wales.

"Children and young people have been involved in the consultation process every step of the way. A Young Person's version of the consultation document was produced to allow young people to help shape the services they would like to receive. We are serious about listening and acting on what we hear."

The document can be viewed via the following links:

Children's NSF Cover Pages

Children's NSF (english)

Children's NSF (welsh)

A short guide to the National Service Framework for Children, Young People and Maternity Services in Wales (Children’s NSF) has been produced for children, young people, their parents and carers, to tell them how the Children’s NSF will affect the services they use. For more information or to download a copy, please click on the link below:

Short Guide to the Children's NSF

Last updated: 11/08/2008