CYP Now - Human rights committee criticises government actions to protect children during pandemic

A damning report by the Joint Committee on Human Rights (JCHR) has raised questions about government decisions to protect vulnerable children in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

MPs have vowed to offer support to those worst affected. Picture: Adobe Stock

In its latest review, the Government’s response to Covid-19: human rights implications, the committee highlights issues around government decisions to remove “vital” protections for looked-after children and those on the edge of care, changes to legislation allowing young offenders to be incarcerated for up to 23 hours a day and the impact of school closures on the most disadvantaged children.

School closures

The committee examined the impact of school closures on children’s human rights, particularly those of vulnerable children and those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

The report highlights an increase in mental health issues faced by young people as schools closed and an increase in referrals to children’s services departments as lockdown measures eased as well as the widening attainment gap between poor students and their wealthier peers following six months of school closures.

Register Now to Continue Reading

Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's Included