Ahead of the Second Reading of the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill in the House of Lords on 1 May, CRAE, UNICEF UK, and NSPCC, for the Children’s Charities Coalition, have prepared a joint briefing calling for the Bill to be used to strengthen protections for children’s rights in law and policymaking.
The briefing urges Peers to support two key, practical measures:
- A statutory duty on Ministers to consider children’s rights when exercising their functions
- A requirement to prepare and publish Child Rights Impact Assessments (CRIAs) for all relevant policies, legislation and decisions
These proposals would help ensure that children’s rights, interests and voices are not overlooked in decision-making—especially those of the most disadvantaged. They are in line with recommendations from the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child and would bring England closer in line with the stronger protections already in place in Wales, Scotland and Jersey.
The briefing is backed by more than 110 organisations from across the children’s sector and beyond, reflecting a broad and diverse coalition of support—from large national charities and professional bodies to grassroots community organisations.
The depth and breadth of support for this briefing demonstrates the sector’s shared commitment to a more child-centred approach to government.
This collective show of support sends a clear message: children’s rights must be made visible and central in policymaking across government. We urge Peers to listen.
📩 For more information, contact: Mandeer Kataria, Senior Policy and Public Affairs Advisor
mandeerkataria@justforkidslaw.org
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