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Human rights are a basic standard which entitles all human beings to live in dignity, liberty and freedom of expression. These ensure that we are treated equally and fairly and are the foundations of a democratic society.
Rights for children and young people
There is a special set of rights for children and young people called the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. This is an international agreement between countries to obey the same standards. In England the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) is responsible for making sure this convention is being implemented. These standards apply to all young people without exception, to ensure that the best interest of children and young people is of a primary concern, and that the views of young people are taken into consideration. Young people who live away from home or are disabled have additional rights to make sure they are treated fairly.
Every child (up to 18) in the UK has been entitled to over 40 specific rights. These include the right:
- to say what you think about the things that are happening to you
- to say what is good or bad about a service you get i.e. making a complaint
- to be treated as an individual
- to be treated fairly
- to not be treated differently because of your ethnicity, gender, sexuality, religion, language, views, family background or any disability or impairment
- to an education, leisure, culture and the arts
- to personal privacy
- to access information
- to be listened to and taken seriously
- to be involved in future plans for your care and future
- to be safe
- to live in a family environment or alternative care, and to have contact with both parents wherever possible
You can download a full summary from the Get Ready for Geneva website.
- Young People Legal Advice Line - 0800 783 2187
- Childline – 0800 1111
The international children’s rights charity
Children’s Rights Alliance for England (CRAE)
CRAE runs children's rights projects and campaigns; actively promotes children's and young people's participation in decision-making; provides information to organisations and individuals; offers training on children's rights and participation; and produces publications on different aspects of children's human rights
The Children's Legal Centre gives advice and support on legal matters including exclusions to young people and their parents and guardians.
Rights 4 Me is the official website for the Office for the Children's Rights Director for England (OCRD).
Is the official website for children and young people who want action on children’s rights.