Using a rights-based approach in the care of children and young people with disability: an introduction for paediatric practice

Children with disabilities account for around 11% of the United Kingdom paediatric population and some attend frequently to healthcare services, both in the community and to secondary care. They are not a homogenous group and each child will have their own identity, needs and beliefs. As a group, however, they are particularly vulnerable to discrimination and may be more at risk of abuse and neglect. They may face additional barriers to having their voice heard and their rights fulfilled. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) makes specific provision for children with disabilities and exists alongside several other legal frameworks which aim to ensure that people with disability live as full and dignified a life as their peers. This article will examine which human rights provisions exist for children and young people with disability and which tools might be helpful for paediatricians and healthcare professionals to have awareness of to ensure that children and young people with disability have their rights considered when decisions are taken which affect them.