This guidance reflects the principles contained within the United Nations Convention on
the Rights of the Child, ratified by the UK Government in 1991. It takes into account the
European Convention of Human Rights, in particular Articles 6 and 8. It also takes account
of other relevant legislation at the time of publication. It is particularly informed by the
requirements of the Children Act 1989, which provides a comprehensive framework for the
care and protection of children, and the Children Act 2004, which underpins the Every Child
Matters reforms and includes the provisions on Local Safeguarding Children Boards.
