Quality Assurance Framework (QAF)
The QAF will provide OOHC caseworkers with access to reliable information about the safety, permanency and the wellbeing of children with final orders in OOHC
Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) for Carers
The QAF recognises that listening to carers is essential. Carers have first-hand experience of what a child or young person is experiencing, and can provide valuable insight into their social functioning, emotional and mental health.
The SDQ does not provide a diagnosis of a child or young person’s mental health, it can be used as a screener, to reliably flag a concern that may require further attention.
The SDQ was developed by Dr Robert Goodman, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College London, the SDQ is a short behavioural screening questionnaire.
A primary carer will complete the SDQ in Viewpoint, for children and young people (aged 2 to 17 years) who are in their care with final orders. The carer reads statements, and selects an answer that describes the child or young person in regard to:
- emotional difficulties
- conduct problems
- hyperactivity or inattention
- peer relationship problems
- pro-social behaviours
Once a carer has completed the questionnaire, the system automatically generates an easy-to-read report.
More information can be found in the QAF User Guide - Chapter 3 – Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire for Carers.