We have all heard the sighs of irritation from other delegates when some brave soul challenges the supposedly inclusive word 'children' on so many policies, consultation documents and - most recently - National Service Frameworks. Time and again, the policy-maker or their representative hears the argument, smiles thinly and then says, "but of course when we say children, we mean young people too". If that's what they mean, why don't they say it?
Call any 16-year-old a child, and you can anticipate what kind of a reception you will receive - and will deserve. Children are as a rule regarded as extremely vulnerable and their less attractive features excused because, well, because they are children and can't be expected to behave as an adult might. But an adolescent? They in contrast are criticised and castigated because, "for goodness' sake, you're not a child any more. Act your age." Acting your age means being able to marry or join the forces at 16, but not to be acknowledged as something other than a child if, for example, you need treatment for a health - especially a mental health - problem.
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