Needs assessment and prioritisation

Needs assessment and prioritisation is the first stage of the commissioning cycle.

Needs assessment

The process starts with the needs assessment. This should:

Determine the extent to which the five Every Child Matters outcomes are being met
Identify possible ways to achieve the five outcomes more effectively and efficiently
Clarify local expectations
Contribute towards a shared undestanding of local priorities

The needs assessment should be based on key information that has been acquired by engaging with children, young people and their families. It should include an objective and frank analysis of how well local children and young people are being supported in achieving the five outcomes. Gaps or shortfalls in meeting their needs should be included in this analysis so that priorities are identified for improvement. This assessment will contribute signficantly towards local authority Children and Young People's Plans.

Prioritisation

The next stage is to review the priorities set out during the need assessment. These should be reviewed through annual priorities meetings, based on the Children and Young People's Plan. They should also include an ongoing process of participation by children and young people.

A broad range of other local priorities should also be considered, including the duty to promote the educational achievement of looked-after children and the duty to improve private fostering notification arrangements.

Click to read more about joint planning and commissioning.

Documents

Outcomes Framework

Children and Young People: Needs Assessment - briefing paper