Kingston, Jamaica – The National Parenting Support Commission ,(NPSC), seeks to introduce an Accreditation Framework to strengthen and standardise parenting support services across Jamaica. The framework is designed to ensure parents have reliable access to effective and evidence-based programmes that support parents in their role.

The framework establishes national standards for organisations and practitioners offering parenting programmes and support services. It  provides guidance for programme objectives, governance, ethical practices and overall effectiveness. The NPSC will oversee the process, which is intended to promote consistency, accountability and ongoing improvement in programme delivery.

Parenting support services have historically varied in approach and quality, which has led to inconsistent access, particularly for parents who are in underserved communities. The framework is intended to address these gaps by ensuring services meet national standards, align with best practices, and contribute to strengthening parental capacity and improving outcomes for children.

The Accreditation Framework benefits both parents and service providers. Parents can access programmes that meet recognised standards, while providers receive guidance, training opportunities and recognition. Providers seeking accreditation will participate in a structured review process that examines programme objectives, governance, ethical practices, and service delivery. Accredited programmes will be publicly recognised to provide parents with a trusted reference point and to encourage continuous improvement among providers.

“The Accreditation Framework seeks to raise the standard of parenting support in Jamaica,” said Kaysia Kerr, Chief Executive Officer of the NPSC. “Parents deserve high-quality services, and this framework equips providers to deliver them consistently. Stronger parents build stronger parent-child relationships, which contribute to stronger communities and a stronger nation.”

The NPSC is inviting all providers of parenting support services to begin preparing for the accreditation process. Standardising service delivery and strengthening programme quality is an important step in fostering accountability, professionalism and consistent support across the sector.