e-Enabled Common Assessment Framework (eCAF)

The eCAF was created by the Department of Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) to enable a variety of professionals working with children and their families to assess their needs.

The eCAF provides a complete early intervention process, known as an 'episode', which can be instigated by a range of professionals involved in a child's life, from teachers to nurses and social care practitioners. Strictly-defined rules govern issues such as consent, information sharing, care plans and reviews.

The eCAF is designed to reduce the number of referrals to children's social care. The aim is to use early intervention to improve outcomes for children, while also reducing overall care costs.

"The PROTOCOL eCAF system from Liquidlogic has been implemented quickly and effectively. Our local processes have been incorporated into the solution and practitioners find the system user friendly, supporting the work that they do."

Cathy Atherton, Trafford Council