The Children Act

The Act sets out certain rights for young people. The Local Authority has a duty to provide services to young people under the age of 18 who are assessed as being ‘in need’. You might be ‘in need’ because you are homeless or have a disability. The best thing to do is to ask your Services to Children & Young People Department  for an assessment. You have a right to an assessment if you are aged under 18. The Children Act 2000 has increased the Local Authority’s duties to give more help and support to young people leaving care. You also have the right to complain under the Children Act, if you feel you have not been treated fairly. Your local Services to Children & Young People office or housing advice centre can provide further information.