This week's Article of the Week is:
Article 39: I have the right to get help if I have been hurt, neglected or badly treated.
Article 39 of the UNCRC says children and young people have the right to recover from difficult things that happen to them, and that they can expect to receive the help that allows them to do so. The specific examples given may not be age appropriate, so we encourage families to discuss this with their children in a way that they best see fit.
What help should be given
Children and young people should be able to recover in an environment that promotes their dignity, health and self-respect. Their views should be taken into account as to the kind of help they receive, and help should be given with their best interests at heart.
There should be no discrimination around who gets help and who doesn’t. Children and young people should be able to get help whoever they are, and wherever they live in the UK.
If a crime has been committed against a child or young person, they should be protected as part of the help they receive. They should feel safe, and should be safe as well.