The INSPIRE handbook: action for implementing the seven strategies for ending violence against children explains in detail how to choose and implement interventions that will fit your needs and context. The seven strategy-specific chapters address the Implementation and enforcement of laws; Norms and values; Safe environments; Parent and caregiver support; Income and economic strengthening; Response and support services; and Education and life skills. The handbook concludes with a summary of INSPIRE’s implementation and impact indicators, drawn from the companion INSPIRE indicator guidance and results framework.
What is included in the INSPIRE technical package and the INSPIRE Handbook?
This handbook explores in more detail the approaches and programmes described in the INSPIRE technical package, all of which: • meet the criteria for effective, promising, or prudent practice (see pages 22-23 of the INSPIRE technical package for more detail); and • have the potential to be available at low or no cost. Much of what we know about what works to prevent and respond to violence against children is based on evidence from high-income countries. However, 75% of interventions featured in the INSPIRE technical package were developed or implemented in low- or middle-income countries. Neither the INSPIRE technical package nor this handbook is intended to be an exhaustive review of all the evidence in this field. The handbook provides users with additional information and insight for planning implementation of the approaches and programmes featured in the INSPIRE technical package, and does not attempt to repeat or update the evidence described there.
Who is this handbook for? The INSPIRE Handbook is a resource for all stakeholders working to end violence against children. Specifically, it is intended for:
- policy-makers and legislators, to help build the supportive environment and commitment needed for comprehensive, multisectoral action;
- planners and technical staff within ministries, service sectors or civil society, to inform national plans of action to address violence against children;
- practitioners and implementers of violence prevention and response policies, programmes and services, to apply evidence-supported guidance for effective action and good practice;
- funders of social, economic, humanitarian, and civil society initiatives, to develop portfolios that include violence prevention and response strategies that are mutually reinforcing, evidence-supported and cost-effective over the long term;
- advocates, to build support for funded, multisectoral commitments to protecting children.
Violence against children is an acute problem that requires urgent action. We do not know everything about what works to prevent and respond. However, focusing on evidence-supported policies, practices and programmes can help balance the need to act with the need to implement thoughtful, cost-effective interventions.
