Your rights as a young person if you are impacted by the justice system

This might mean they have:

  • been arrested
  • gone to prison
  • are on a community sentence
  • are about to leave prison

You might feel lots of different emotions or have many questions. You are not alone, and it's not your fault.

Your rights

You have rights under the UNCRC (United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child). These rights are protected by law in Scotland.

You can learn more about your rights on the CYPCS (Children and Young People’s Commissioner Scotland) website.

It includes:

  • no discrimination
  • looking after your best interests
  • protecting your identity
  • keeping families together
  • respecting your views
  • protecting your privacy
  • giving you access to information you need
  • giving you the right care if you are unable to live with your own family

Child Impact Assessments

Child Impact Assessments are available to help you share how you feel and be listened to. They help adults to understand what  support you might need.

If you want to find out more, talk to a trusted adult (like a teacher, family member, or support worker). They may already know about Child Impact Assessments, or they can find out more. You can show them this webpage to help.

Need more support?

Visit the Families Outside website or phone them on 0800 254 0088. They can answer any questions and offer support.

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