The High Court ruled that children under 18 held in prison are protected by the Children Act 1989.
Source: R (Howard League for Penal Reform) v Secretary of State for the Home Department, 29.11.02
Links: Law report | Community Care article
Date: 2002-Nov
A United Nations Committee published a report detailing action needing to be taken by the United Kingdom to meet its obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The Committee expressed particular concern over teenage pregnancy rates, child prostitution, and child poverty, and recommended the creation of a children's rights 'commissioner' in England. The government defended its record and said it remains to be convinced of the case for a commissioner.
Source: Concluding Observations of the Committee on the Rights of the Child: United Kingdom of Great Britain & Northern Ireland, United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child (41 22 917 9000) | Press release 4.10.02, Children and Young Person's Unit/Department for Education and Skills (0870 000 2288)
Links: Report (pdf) | Press release (pdf) | Community Care article
Date: 2002-Oct
A new book examined different theories of childhood, children's rights and the relationship between children, parents and the state. Focusing on children looked after by the state, it reviewed the changing objectives of the care system and the extent to which children are involved in decisions about their care.
Source: Nigel Thomas, Children, Family and the State: Decision-making and child participation, Policy Press, available from Marston Book Services (01235 465500)
Links: Summary
Date: 2002-Oct
Guidelines were published for involving children and young people particularly those who have a chronic illness or physical disability in local decisions about health services development.
Source: Jane Lightfoot and Patricia Sloper, Having a Say in Health: Guidelines for involving young patients in health services development, Social Policy Research Unit/University of York (01904 433608)
Links: Guidelines (pdf) | Research summary (pdf)
Date: 2002-Sep
The Scottish Executive set out the role of an independent Commissioner for children and young people; the Commissioner would focus on promoting and safeguarding children s rights, communicating with children, investigations, and promoting good practice.
Source: Scottish Executive Response to the Report from the Education, Culture and Sport Committee Report on a Proposed Commissioner for Children and Young People Bill, Scottish Executive (0131 556 8400)
Links: Response (pdf) | Press release
Date: 2002-Aug