"When adults are making decisions that affect children, children have the right to say what they think should happen and have their opinions taken into account....This Convention encourages adults to listen to the opinions of children and involve them in decision-making."
(Article 12 - UNICEF Summary Fact Sheet on the UN Convention On The Rights Of The Child)
The UK government signed up to the United Nations Convention in 1991, so they know you have the right to have a say in making decisions that affect you.
Be heard
It’s important that young people know, and make sure other people know, that you have a view and you have the right to be listened to. You need to find out what you can have an opinion on, how you can express your opinion and who to talk to. The list below gives ideas on things for you to think about.
- Are your views taken seriously within your family or where you live?
- Are your views taken into account about where you live or who you live with?
- Do you have a say in your local area about issues such as play areas, transport, or leisure facilities?
- What say do you have in the running of your school?
- As a young person you have certain rights and responsibilities as a citizen in your community.
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