Common Assessment Framework
The Common Assessment Framework (CAF) is a key part of the Every Child Matters: Change for Children programme. The aim is to identify, at the earliest opportunity additional needs which are not being met by the universal services children are receiving, and provide timely and co-ordinated support to meet those needs.
The CAF is voluntary and consent-based. It is underpinned by a partnership approach between families and practitioners, with emphasis on family-based decision-making. The CAF assesses the strengths and needs of the child and their family, and families play a big part when developing an action plan for meeting any identified additional needs.
This section will give you information on how to use the CAF in practice, and more information about the CAF, and where it fits in with other assessment processes. This section also contains examples, case studies and answers to frequently asked questions.
Further reading
Associated documents
CAF documents
| Format | Title | Date |
|---|---|---|
 |
CWDC Common Assessment Framework factsheet | December 2008 |
|
DCSF CAF information for young people leaflet | April 2007 |
|
DCSF CAF information for parents leaflet | April 2007 |
|
CAF underpinning principles of assessment | March 2009 |
|
CAF level 3 process chart | March 2009 |
