This is an assessment framework with a series of assessment questions for countries interested in furthering care systems. It is intended as a participatory self-assessment and planning exericse to continue to improve national care systems. This assessment information can then be used to develop strategy and action planning towards improving systems of care. This document should be used together with CTWWC's Care System Assessment Guidance document. 

This handbook, Moving Forward: Implementation of the ‘Guidelines for the Alternative Care of Children,’ is aimed at legislators, policy-makers and decision-makers, as well as professionals and care providers, to support the implementation of the Guidelines for the Alternative Care of Children, endorsed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2009. It explains the key thrusts of the Guidelines, outlines the kind of policy responses required, and describes ‘promising’ examples of efforts already made to apply them in diverse communities, countries, regions and cultures.

Guidelines for recording a comprehensive assessment of the child. Outlines questions to be asked during the assessment.

A set of questions for parents/caregivers to complete on the child’s health, development, and behavior. Can be used as part of an assessment or to prepare caregivers.

A child friendly assessment form for children/young people who are caregivers. The assessment helps them to identify what support services they may need.

Theory and practice guidance on interviewing and assessing children and families. Contains an example assessment, as well as training questions and answers on communication skills, planning, and assessment.

Guidance on how to complete the referral form, initial assessment and core assessment from the resource Framework for the Assessment of Children and their Families.

A set of questionnaires for the child or caregiver to complete on recent life events, their strengths and weaknesses, how they cope with everyday life, the condition of the home, or alcohol consumption.

Form for recording basic information on the child and family, the services they currently access, and any required referrals for further assessment and/or services.

Comprehensive guidance on undertaking an assessment of children in need and their families. It covers the principles for assessment, the process of assessing children, how to analyze and make decisions, the roles and responsibilities of various agencies, and organizational arrangements to support effective assessments.