This paper describes how the Best Interests principles and related provisions of the Children, Youth and Families Act 2005 (CYFA) attend to the particular needs of children who are vulnerable as a result of their family’s circumstances, dynamics and social isolation.

It sets out a Best Interests framework, to assist professionals working in family services, child protection and placement services to apply the new Act in making a difference to these children’s lives.

This framework will support a consistent understanding of the CYFA and inform the development of more detailed practice guidance and tools.