Multi-agency responses to child abuse, such as the Barnahus and Children's Advocacy Center models aim to provide holistic, child-friendly interventions. However, evaluation of these services tends to rely on procedural metrics (e.g., conviction rates), overlooking the experiences of primary service users. This review aimed to synthesize qualitative evidence regarding children's experiences of child protection, criminal justice, medical, and therapeutic responses to identify child-centered outcome domains. The review included 51 peer-reviewed studies and reports published between 2015 and 2025. Participants included cohorts of children ( n = 33), adult survivors reflecting on childhood experiences ( n = 8), and mixed groups ( n = 10) from Europe, North America, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. A systematic search was conducted across five databases (PsycINFO, Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, and Proquest Social Sciences). Data were analyzed using a thematic synthesis approach to identify cross-cutting domains of service quality from the perspective of children and young people. Five primary outcome domains were identified: (1) The Professional Relationship (trust, kindness, and being believed); (2) Empowerment and Participation (agency and clear information); (3) Safety and Security (emotional, physical, and procedural safety); (4) Holistic Wellbeing (trauma-informed, timely support); and (5) Systemic Efficacy (coordination to minimize re-telling). Children currently in the system prioritized immediate information and safety, while adult survivors emphasized the long-term impact of respectful professional relationships. For children, the process of intervention is as significant as the formal outcome. High-quality responses are defined by relational safety and empowering children's participation. Evaluation frameworks for multi-agency models should incorporate these experiential domains to ensure accountability to children. • Children value kindness and authenticity above procedural efficiency. • Safe spaces outside the home are critical for adolescent safety. • Current metrics often overlook holistic wellbeing and recovery. • Children need clarity on their influence in decision-making processes. • Relational safety is the foundation of effective multi-agency responses.
Herbert et al. (Thu,) studied this question.