Named persons

Named persons exist to mobilise support early and in the least intrusive way.

A named person is a clear point of contact for anyone concerned about a child or young person’s wellbeing. That includes the child or young person themselves.

Named person roles at identified ages and stages

Pregnant woman

Pre-birth

Midwife and/or vulnerable in pregnancy midwife

Pre-school children playing

Birth to primary school entry

Health visitor or family nurse

Primary school girl writing

Primary School

Head teacher or depute head teacher

Secondary school pupils

Secondary School

Guidance teacher (or other promoted member of school staff)

Some families may have access to more than one named person depending on the ages of children in the family. Every young person has access to a named person until they are 18.

The named person:

  • promotes good wellbeing and forms relationships through the provision of a universal service.
  • is a clear point of contact for anyone concerned about the child or young person’s wellbeing.
  • is not responsible for the support offered by other services.

A Team Around the Child (TAC) multi-agency response may be needed when additional or intensive support is required. This should take place in consultation with the named person.

There are five key GIRFEC questions that all practitioners should ask themselves when considering a child or young person’s wellbeing needs, whilst maintaining a focus on the rights of the child.

  • What is getting in the way of this child or young person’s wellbeing?
  • Do I have all the information I need to help this child or young person?
  • What can I do now that is needed and appropriate to help this child or young person?
  • What can my agency or organisation do now to help this child or young person?
  • What additional help, if any, may be needed from others?

Useful links