Content of this guidance

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.