Association of Optometrists


Primary Care

National Service Framework for Children

National Service Framework for children, young people and maternity services

The Children's NSF, published on 15 September 2004, sets standards for children's health and social services, and the interface of those services with education. Click here to access the section on the Department of Health website which provides information on the development of the NSF.

The standards are designed to generate a step change in the quality of children's health services and are based on current best practice. The NSF is designed to ensure that all children and young people get services that are age-appropriate and accessible, and recognise their needs as different. It must be implemented by NHS Trusts and primary care organisations over the next 10 years although the timing and planning of implementation are local matters. The standards will be delivered locally and monitored by independent bodies including the Healthcare Commission.