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:

  • is responsible for coordinating a wellbeing assessment to identify needs and concerns with any other relevant agency alongside the child, young person, family or carers
  • is not responsible for the support offered by other services
  • will be the lead professional, coordinating and reviewing the support provided by universal services or third sector organisations

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.

Useful links