Your Rights

Your Rights

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Whether you’re at school, college or university, working or unemployed, you need to understand your rights and responsibilities so that you know how to stay within the law, and how the law can protect you.

Legal issues can be complicated, so you should always get proper advice.

Who can you speak to?

Your local Social Services

Find your local Social Services office and the office which deals with services for children and families.

If you've are in care or have left a care home, visit the Care Law website for information on your rights.

Your local Citizen’s Advice Bureau (CAB)

You can get online advice on the CAB’s own website or pop in to your local Citizen’s Advice Bureau.

Your local authority (if you are a ‘looked after child’)

If your local authority (council) provides you with accommodation or you are in care then ask your social worker about:

• How plans are made for your future and how you will be able to have a say in these.
• Court orders.
• How to complain if you are unhappy about how you are looked after.
• Help that you can be given when you leave care.

National Contacts

Children’s Legal Centre

The Children's Legal Centre covers law and policy affecting children and young people.

Childline

If you need to talk to someone, call ChildLine free on 0800 1111. The lines can be busy so keep trying, or visit the ChildLine website for advice.

NSPCC Child Protection Line

Tel: 0800 800500 for their 24 hour freephone service or visit the Kids Zone section of their website for advice.

Information Commissioner's Office is a comprehensive resource for individuals and organisations. Their library contains guidance, legislation, brochures, leaflets and factsheets on topics such as Data protection, Privacy and electronic communications, Freedom of information, etc

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Page updated: Monday, March 10, 2008 6:16 PM