Across the UK there are many laws which aim to keep children safe and protect their rights. These laws:. We've put together an overview of the key legislation in these areas, to help people who work with children. In England, a child is defined as anyone who has not yet reached their 18th birthday. Child protection guidance points out that even if a child has reached 16 years of age and is:. In Scotland, the definition of a child varies in different legal contexts, but statutory guidance which supports the Children and Young People Scotland Act , includes all children and young people up to the age of The National guidance for child protection in Scotland gives more detail about this and explains how professionals should act to protect young people from harm in different circumstances Scottish Government, a.
Section 3 of the Social Services and Well-being Wales Act states that a child is a person who is aged under Some rights are recognised at international level through agreements between governments. It sets standards for education, health care, social services and penal laws, and establishes the right of children to have a say in decisions that affect them.
The UK signed this convention in All provisions will come in to force within 6 months of the Act receiving Royal Assent on the 16 January Scottish Government b. This means that children can complain to a UK court if their rights have been broken, and if the claim is rejected, take their claim to the European Court of Human Rights.
The Human Rights Act sets out the fundamental rights and freedoms that everyone in the UK is entitled to. The Equality Act protects children, young people and adults against discrimination, harassment and victimisation in relation to housing, education, clubs, the provision of services and work. The Act applies to England, Scotland and Wales.
Northern Ireland has a number of different anti-discrimination laws relating to the provision of services. Each of the four nations in the UK has a Children's Commissioner who is responsible for promoting and protecting the rights and best interests of children and young people:.
