In Scotland, children have the right for their views to be listened to when decisions are made about their education. Usually, parents, carers or school staff can help them take part in these conversations.
But sometimes a child might want to share their views in a different way, or may find it difficult to speak up in meetings.
This is where the Children’s Views service can help – by supporting children to express what they think and feel, in the way that works best for them.
What is the role of the Children’s Views service?
The Children’s Views service provides space and support for a child to share their views separate from the school, the local authority and their family.
This can be important in listening to what’s going on for them at school and in thinking about what they want to say in decisions affecting their school education and experience.
Who can use the Children’s Views service?
The Children’s Views service works with children in Scotland who are 12–15-years-old and who have additional support needs.
Who will work with a child to support them to share their views?
Our Children’s Views team work with children to help them to share their views with the people who are involved in planning and making decisions about their education and support.
My Rights, My Say is independent of the child’s school and local authority. Our staff team do not make their own assessment of a situation. They are there simply to help children be involved in the decision-making process.
What happens at a Children’s Views meeting?
A member of our team will meet with a child or young person in whichever way they are most comfortable with. This could be in person at home, at school or somewhere else, or online. They can also communicate in other ways if that is more comfortable for a child or young person, for example via email or text messages.
Our team will take time to get to know each child or young person. they will explain what the questions or issues for them to discuss are in a sensitive and accessible way.
This engagement could involve a variety of different methods. The Children’s Views service takes an open-minded and creative approach and can flexibly respond to the unique needs, interests and talents of each individual we work with.
What will happen once a child has shared their views?
Following the Children’s Views meeting(s), the worker will write a report that includes what the child or young person has told them. The child or young person will then have the opportunity to review this to make sure they are happy with what is written. Once finalised, the completed report will then be submitted to the appropriate people in each circumstance. A copy will be sent to the child or young person and their parent or carer.
The Children’s Views team can also help the child to share their views at a meeting if this is beneficial.
Training and development
The My Rights, My Say Children’s Views service can also deliver training and development for your school, local authority or organisation.
We offer tailored sessions that help staff understand children’s rights and feel confident in supporting children with additional support needs to share their views and take part in decisions.
Children in Scotland
The My Rights, My Say Children’s Views service is managed by Children in Scotland.
It is an important part of Children in Scotland’s Additional Support for Learning (ASL) Services.