National Transitions to Adulthood Strategy for young disabled people: child rights and wellbeing impact assessment

7. Conclusion

As a result of the evidence gathered and analysed against all UNCRC requirements, what is the potential overall impact of this proposal on children’s rights?

The overall impact of this proposal on children’s rights is positive since the Transitions to Adulthood Strategy for Young Disabled People aims to facilitate young disabled people aged 14-25 to feel confident in their transition and to be empowered to control their own path to success whatever that looks like for them.

How will the proposal protect, respect, and fulfil children’s rights in Scotland?

The Strategy aims to respect, protect and fulfil children’s rights, in particular through the following UNCRC Articles:

• Article 1 Definition of the child
• Article 23 Children with a disability

As noted in Question 2, the Strategy will have positive impacts on all disabled children, those aged 14-18 in their transition planning and experiences during this period of their lives, as well as those currently under the age of 14 who are expected to benefit from the improvements to transitions by the Strategy when they reach this transitional age.

• Article 3 Best interests of the child
• Article 12 Respect for the views of the child

Priority 1 of the Strategy advocates for the importance of choice and person-centred decision making in transition planning. This aligns and respects the rights of the child in Articles 3 and 12 by allowing informed decision making and advocates that transitions should not be limited but should fulfil the ambitions and desires of the individual.

• Article 24 Health and health services
• Article 28 Right to education
• Article 29 Goals of education

These rights are protected and promoted through the Strategy by endorsing collaboration, high standards, clear communication and early planning to facilitate and fulfil successful transitions in health services and educational settings, if required or desired.

• Article 42 Knowledge of rights

Priority 2 of the Strategy specifically notes the importance of clear and accessible communication and ensuring those involved in transitions for young disabled people understand and can recognise when their rights are not being upheld and know how to challenge this appropriately to rectify issues they face.