Information for Parents
If you or your child has been referred to Childhood Matters, you may have questions about why you have been referred and what will happen next.
We’re here to help you find the right information and understand the support you or your child may receive.
What happens after a referral?
The referral process is different for each service. Visit the individual service page for information about what happens after a referral to that particular service.
1. We receive the referral.
A professional involved with you or your child sends information to the relevant Childhood Matters service.
2. The service considers the referral.
The team looks at the information provided and whether the service is the right form of support.
3. Someone contacts you.
If the referral progresses, a member of the team will explain the service, what happens next and anything you need to know before your first appointment.
4. You can ask questions.
You will have an opportunity to ask questions and talk about any worries or practical needs you may have.
Questions children and young people often ask
Ask us a questionHow do we measure impact?
We track outcomes that matter—how children develop, how families feel supported, how communities change. The data guides us, but we listen harder to the stories families tell us about what shifted in their lives.
What makes your research different?
Our work lives in the real world, not in isolation. We study what actually works for children and families facing real challenges, then we act on what we learn.
Can we access your findings?
Yes. We publish our research and share what we learn with practitioners, policymakers, and anyone working to help children. Knowledge should move, not sit still.
How long does change take?
It depends on the child, the family, the situation. Some shifts happen quickly. Others take time and patience. We measure progress in small movements and big transformations, whatever the timeline demands.
Who funds this work?
We’re supported by organizations and individuals who believe in this mission. Our funding comes from those committed to giving children and families what they need to heal and grow.
Still have questions?
It's okay to feel nervous or unsure.
If there's something you're wondering about, we're here to help.
