CYP Now - Opinion: Is devolution affecting children's policy?

Devolution of power to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland has yet to live up to many people's expectations. Radical constitutional changes in the governance of the UK has not, thus far, been fulfilled. There is little change and the centre of gravity, when it comes to policy development, remains in London.

But children's policy is one area where there have been signs of change.

Since the constitutional reforms of 1999, there has been a divergence in policy, language and approach that is now contributing to a rich debate about the future direction of children's policy throughout the UK.

Recent criticism of the limitations of England's proposal for a children's commissioner by established counterparts in Wales and Northern Ireland was a clear demonstration of just how far English policy is now being tested by developments in the devolved nations.

So too was the Scottish Executive's Charter for Children, unveiled last week. It does not amount to full-bodied policy making. But as a clear statement of what Scotland's children should expect from politicians, communities, parents, police, health, social care and education professionals, it offers a more child-focused statement of intent than Every Child Matters.

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