Act now

Use the Convention on the Rights of the Child as your guide. It gives children and young people over 40 substantive rights and says they must be treated with respect, dignity and justice.

Treat children and young people as equals – respect what they have to say and take their views seriously.

Make time to understand children and young people’s ideas and concerns – don’t assume adults always have the best ideas and solutions.

Know where to access good information and support to protect children and young people’s rights – see our links section

Remember the Convention on the Rights of the Child is more than just listening to children and young people: it gives everyone the right to the very best childhood.

Understand that children and young people are experts on their own lives and have the right to be involved in all decisions that affect them.

Always put the child and young person’s needs and rights ahead of the interests of your organisation.

If you want to be understood, talk and write in a straightforward way.

Support children and young people to access and influence decision-makers. Try and make sure decision-makers carry out their promises.

Answer children and young people’s questions honestly. If you have asked their views on something, give them good, clear information about what you will do next.