On behalf of the Department of Social Services, AIFS undertook a ‘quick scoping review’ of research evidence about timely decision making for children and young people who have entered the child protection system. Specifically, the review explored two questions:

1. Is there any evidence that the time between a substantiation and a longterm/permanent order (including adoption and reunification) affects the outcomes for children/young people who have been subject to a child protection substantiation?
2. What are the key factors (barriers and enablers) that affect the time taken to make a decision about placement (including adoption) or reunification after a child protection substantiation?