Young People’s Rights in Health
You might not realise it, but rights are a part of our everyday life. Just like anybody else, children and young people have the right to the best health possible.
The United Nations Convention of the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) sets out a number of rights for children and young people up to the age of 18. It's important to understand what your rights are so you can make sure you're being treated fairly, and that you have the protection and support you need.
When we are talking about rights, we mean:
- Your rights to do things, like to be able to play, take part in leisure and creative activities. Be involved in decisions about you.
- Your rights to have things, like food, housing, education and healthcare.
- Your right to be treated in a certain way, like to be protected from abuse.
What should children & young people expect in health?
- To be recognised as an individual.
- To express yourself and to be listened to properly.
- Not to be discriminated against.
- To be treated with dignity and respect.
- To be given information that is clear and easy to understand.
- To know your choices and be involved in all decisions about our treatment.
- Care and treatment that suits your needs.
- To have confidentiality explained fully and to be consulted about how your information is shared.
- To know how to complain and what the complaint process is.
- To have any concerns or complaints dealt with in the most appropriate way.