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What are human rights?
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 Education 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.
What are your rights?
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 Change website or print out the Unicef’s Childrens Right’s & Responsibilities leaflet.
Help lines
- Young People Legal Advice Line - 0800 783 2187
- Childline – 0800 1111
Useful websites
UNICEF UK Tagd
Is a network of young people in the UK who are committed to children's rights. By fundraising, campaigning, and spreading the word, you can reach out to all the world’s children, adding your voice to theirs.
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 resources on human rights and equality for children and young people.
Rights 4 Me
The official website for the Office for the Children's Rights Director for England (OCRD).
Get Ready for Change
Is the official website for children and young people who want action on children’s rights.
Law Stuff
Created by the Children’s Legal Centre; a charity that promotes children’s rights and gives legal advice and representation to children and young people.
Infocow
Infocow connects young people with useful stuff to help take control of life - sites, stories, information and inspiration.
Department for Education
Responsible for ensuring the UN Convention on the Rights of a Child is being implemented.
Online tools
Children’s Rights Quiz
Test how much you know about Children’s Rights.
Last updated: 03/03/11
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