New Law Ensures That Children And Young People Will Be Consulted On Highland Policy Making

16th July 2024

The Highland Council welcomes the introduction of new legislation announced today (16 July 2024) by the Scottish Government that incorporates the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).

Convener of the Council, Cllr Bill Lobban said: "The changes introduced will ensure that Highland's children and young people will be included in, and consulted with, on changes to existing policies and on the introduction of new policies being considered by The Highland Council. I welcome this legislation which will ensure that the voice of our children and young people is taken seriously."

Leader of the Council, Cllr Raymond Bremner said: “While Highland has a good track record of working proactively with Highland Youth Voice and the Highland Youth Parliament this new legislation makes the rights of children and young people a legal consideration that will be included in future policy making.

“On ‘incorporation day’ - we look forward to ensuring that the correct processes and procedures are put firmly in place to ensure that the rights of our children and young people are considered in Highland Council policy making and within the joint policies made with our Community Planning Partners.”

Scottish Government announced the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (Incorporation) (Scotland) Act as a ‘Milestone for children’s rights’ which ‘will now be at the heart of decision making in Scotland’.

Decision makers are now legally required to consult with children and young people on policy changes that will affect them such as healthcare, housing, education, and transport for example.

The multi-agency Children’s Rights and Participation Group, which forms one of six strategic oversight groups delivering on the Integrated Children’s Services Plan, have developed a Children’s Rights and Participation website.

This website www.childrensrightshighland.co.uk will share the work of the group, as well as provide signposting to relevant resources and opportunities relating to children’s rights and participation. The Group are delighted to share this website on the day that the provisions of the UNCRC Act come into force in Scotland.