The Common Core of Skills and Knowledge for the Children's Workforce sets out the basic skills and knowledge needed by people (including volunteers) whose work brings them into regular contact with children, young people and families. It will enable everyone to work together more effectively in the interests of the child.

The skills and knowledge are described under six main headings:

- Effective communication and engagement with children, young people and families

- Child and young person development

- Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the child

- Supporting transitions

- Multi-agency working

- Sharing Information

In the future, the Common Core will form part of qualifications for working with children, young people and families and it will act as a foundation for training and development programmes run by employers and training organisations.

To find out more, take a look at the Common Core of Skills and Knowledge factsheet.