Every Child Matters: Change for Children is a new approach to the well-being of children and young people from birth to age 19.

The programme places better outcomes for children firmly at the centre of all policies and approaches involving children's services. These outcomes are:

• Be healthy
• Stay safe
• Enjoy and achieve through learning
• Make a positive contribution to society
• Achieve economic well-being

The programme demands that all organisations that provide services to children work together in more integrated and effective ways.

The need for change was made apparent in Lord Laming's report into the death of Victoria Climbié, the young girl who was horrifically abused and tortured, and eventually killed by her great aunt and the man with whom they lived. The report highlighted a need for improved integration and accountability across children's services.

In 2003, the Government published a green paper called Every Child Matters alongside its formal response to Lord Laming's report. The green paper prompted an unprecedented debate about services for children, young people and families. There was a wide consultation with people working in children's services, and with parents, children and young people.

Following the consultation, the Government published Every Child Matters: the Next Steps, and passed the Children Act 2004, providing the legislative spine for developing more effective and accessible services focused around the needs of children, young people and families.

Contact the Barnsley Safeguarding Children Board :safeguardingchildrenboard@barnsley.gov.uk