Implementing the SHANARRI wellbeing indicators effectively requires more than understanding the framework. It involves embedding a consistent approach across teams, systems and everyday practice.
For organisations in care, education and local authorities, getting started with SHANARRI means creating the right foundations to support long-term outcomes.
Step 1: Understand the Eight Indicators
The first step is ensuring that all staff have a clear understanding of the SHANARRI indicators and how they apply in practice.
This includes:
- What each indicator represents
- How they relate to day-to-day observations
- How they link to outcomes and decision-making
A shared understanding is essential for consistency across teams.
Step 2: Review Current Systems and Processes
Before implementing SHANARRI fully, organisations should assess how information is currently recorded and shared.
Key questions include:
- Are observations linked to wellbeing indicators
- Is information stored across multiple systems
- Are there gaps or duplication in recording
- How easy is it to access a full picture of wellbeing
This review helps identify areas for improvement.
Step 3: Build a Shared Approach
SHANARRI works best when all professionals are aligned. This requires clear processes and communication across teams.
Organisations should focus on:
- Establishing consistent recording practices
- Using a shared language across services
- Ensuring information is accessible to relevant professionals
- Supporting collaboration between care, education and other services
This creates a more joined-up approach to wellbeing.
Step 4: Choose the Right Tools
Applying SHANARRI effectively often depends on the systems used to support recording and reporting.
Organisations should look for tools that:
- Align directly with the SHANARRI framework
- Reduce duplication in recording
- Provide a shared view across teams
- Support reporting and inspection requirements
Geco Connect has been designed with these needs in mind, helping organisations embed SHANARRI into daily practice through structured, consistent recording.
Step 5: Embed SHANARRI into Daily Practice
The final step is ensuring that SHANARRI becomes part of everyday work rather than a separate process.
This involves:
- Recording observations consistently
- Linking information to wellbeing indicators
- Reviewing progress regularly
- Using insight to inform decisions
Over time, this approach helps build a clearer understanding of each young person’s wellbeing.
Supporting Long-Term Success
Implementing SHANARRI is an ongoing process. It requires regular review, reflection and improvement to ensure that practice remains consistent and effective.
When applied well, SHANARRI supports:
- Better communication between professionals
- Clearer understanding of wellbeing
- Stronger evidence for inspections
- Improved outcomes for children and young people
Get Started with Confidence
If you are looking to implement SHANARRI more effectively across your organisation, Geco Connect can support every step of the process.
Book a Geco Connect demo to see how it works in practice.