The handling of cases where children have been exposed to violence or abuse requires an integrated approach. The Barnahus model aims to achieve this by bringing together various services under one roof to support children effectively and avoid their re-traumatisation.

Alma Economics was commissioned by the OECD to carry out a cost-benefit analysis (CBA) of introducing the Barnahus model in Latvia. Our methodology was informed by a thorough evidence review which identified the impact of programmes similar to the Barnahus model. Additionally, we conducted interviews with sector experts to better understand the services currently received by child victims of, or witnesses to, violence and abuse, and supported a data collection exercise to fill in data gaps required to develop the CBA model.

Our team estimated the costs and benefits of the Barnahus model under different scenarios, concluding that it would generate higher benefits compared to its costs if it operated over the long-term (our model assumes 20 years of operation).

Our research findings are summarised in an OECD report which discusses the support required to establish the Barnahus model with the aim of ensuring multi-disciplinary and inter-institutional cooperation for child victims of violence, and improving the protection of children's rights.