West Lothian Children's Rights Network
The Children's Rights Network was created for children and young people to discuss important services, policies, and topics. It aims to build their confidence and enable them to make effective changes. Adults support this process by making sure children and young peoples voices are heard and by helping to improve services and policies in West Lothian.
The Children's Rights Network was launched with a 'Continuing the Conversation' event at Howden Park Centre in January 2024. A number of different events have taken place since then focusing on issues identified by the network members such as:
- Bullying and discrimination
- School attendance
Some of the activities the network has undertaken includes:
- Logo competition for the Community Planning Partnership
- Sub-group to support 16 Days of Action in November 2024, including a takeover of 101 Youth Space
About the Network
The Children's Rights Network makes sure you and every child across all agencies have your views and rights considered and respected. This group is also responsible for promoting children's rights across West Lothian.The network works together with services and young people to ensure their rights are upheld.
Our Objective
To protect children's rights by raising awareness, promoting education, and fostering collaboration. Our goal is to ensure every child has access to safety, education, health, and a nurturing environment, empowering them to reach their ful potential and live free from exploitation, neglect, and abuse
Our Aims
- To embed Childrens rights within al services within West Lothian.
- Ensure that young people and professionals are aware of the Unite Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child and their rights.
- Support and facilitate opportunities for young people to come together to discuss issues which are important to them and support through making effective change.
Who is involved?
The Children's Rights Network is run by West Lothian Council staff and provides a space for young people to discuss important issues. The professionals involved include; staff from social policy, NHS Lothian, Police Scotland, local businesses, education, and community learning development. The network aims to involve more youth groups and ensure young people have a strong voice.
If you would like to get involved with the network please please email childrensrightsnetwork@westlothian.gov.uk (opens new window).
Children's Rights Network Implementation Group
The Children's Rights Network Implementation Group is an operational group that was established to help develop the Children's Rights Network in West Lothian. The group is chaired by the Community Learning and Development Youth Services Manager and it has members from:
- Education (West Lothian Council)
- Social Policy (West Lothian Council)
- Community Learning and Development (West Lothian Council)
- NHS Lothian
The group are always seeking new membership to create a wider reach. If you work with young people and would be interested in joining please email childrensrights@westlothian.gov.uk (opens new window)
LINK - Terms of Reference - Children's Rights Network Implementation Group