Participation is an important way of delivering protection. Involving children in decision-making is a necessary way of understanding their lives and thus protecting them from harm. Moreover, participation is a form of empowerment and that can enable children to make informed choices, giving them confidence to express their views/ wishes and thus better protect themselves. It is arguably even more important that children who have experienced violence are empowered to participate in decisions affecting them.

The purpose of this publication is to offer professionals in Barnahus and similar models, food for thought for safe and meaningful child participation in case management. It is intended for professionals who work with children, child victims and witnesses of violence or other crimes against children.

Drawing on consultations with children, practitioners and caregivers in Bulgaria, the publication includes checklists, which propose non-exhaustive, adaptable lists of simple ideas on how participation can be facilitated, stimulated, and enabled in safe and meaningful way.

The overall aim of the checklists is to provide examples on how children and caregivers who come to Barnahus and similar models can be offered safe and meaningful opportunities to influence case management, including planning and implementation of interventions related to their case, including the investigative interview and therapy.This publication offers professionals food for thought for safe and meaningful child participation in case management. It is intended for professionals who work with children, child victims and witnesses of violence or other crimes against children.

The above has produced with co-funding from European Union. The contents herein are the sole responsibility of the respective project partnership and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Commission.