By Sophie Payne
In this blog, you will learn:
What the 5 outcomes for children in care are.
Where the 5 outcomes for children in care come from.
Why the 5 outcomes matter for children in care.
Where the latest children's residential home jobs are and how to apply for them.
The 5 outcomes for children in care are a key component of the ‘Every Child Matters’ scheme which was created by the UK Government in 2003, in response to the tragic death of Victoria Climbié in 2000.
The scheme was introduced to make sure that all children, including those in care, have the chance to grow up healthy, safe and supported. Following these outcomes is non-negotiable, as they set the standards for the care and support every child should receive.
The 5 outcomes provide guidance for professionals in a child’s life, including Social Workers, foster carers and Residential Workers, to ensure that children receive consistent care and support.
This blog uncovers what the 5 outcomes for children in care are and why these outcomes matter.
What are the 5 outcomes for children in care?
The 5 outcomes for children in care are:
Be healthy.
Stay safe.
Enjoy and achieve.
Make a positive contribution.
Achieve economic wellbeing.
Be healthy
‘Be healthy’ means that every child should have good mental, physical and emotional health, in order to grow and reach their full potential. This means ensuring that children eat nutritious food, get enough exercise, have access to healthcare (such as a GP and a dentist) and learn about healthy lifestyles.
This outcome also includes supporting emotional health by helping children manage their feelings, cope with stress and build their confidence.
Stay safe
‘Stay safe’ means that children should be protected from maltreatment and feel safe in their environment. This includes helping children to understand safe and unsafe situations, both online and in real life, and encouraging them to speak up if they feel at risk.
This outcome focuses on safeguarding children from accidental injury, bullying and discrimination, as well as protecting them from crime and anti-social behaviour.
Enjoy and achieve
‘Enjoy and achieve’ means supporting children to ensure they get the most out of life, succeed in education and reach their full potential. This includes helping children attend school regularly, access learning opportunities and develop their skills and interests.
It also involves encouraging children to take part in hobbies, sports and activities to help them build self-esteem and confidence.
The aim of this outcome is to provide equal opportunities for all children, especially those facing barriers.
Make a positive contribution
‘Make a positive contribution’ means supporting children to play an active and responsible role in their families, schools and communities. This includes encouraging them to make friends, get involved in group activities, try volunteering and have a say in topics that affect them.
It also means helping them understand that they shouldn’t engage in anti-social behaviour and how their actions affect others, how to resolve conflicts constructively and how to treat people with respect.
Achieve economic wellbeing
‘Achieve economic wellbeing’ means helping children with the tools and support they need to live independently and securely as they grow up. This includes learning skills for work and everyday life, planning for their future and understanding how to manage money.
It also involves having a safe home, access to basic necessities and the support to avoid poverty or financial stress.
The aim of this outcome is to make sure every child has a fair chance to build a stable, independent and fulfilling life.
Why do these outcomes matter for children in care?
Children in care often face huge challenges such as moving between homes, changing schools or experiencing uncertainty in their day to day, which can make it hard for them to feel safe and supported.
The 5 outcomes of being healthy, staying safe, enjoying life, making a positive contribution and achieving economic wellbeing are designed to address these challenges.
These outcomes provide a framework for care workers and professionals to guide care, measure progress and ensure every child has the chance to reach their full potential.
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