The National Service Framework 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.