Standard 12 / before

I know what my rights are and how these will be upheld during my stay in secure care. These rights are explained to me by someone I know and trust before my stay begins.

I would have liked it better if my social worker just sat me down and explained what could happen…what secure was…what it looked like…how it would help me…why it was the only option now…instead of threatening me with secure care all the time. Social Workers need to be more truthful with us.

Why this standard matters to young people, in their words

Additional information about this standard

Illustrative links to the Health and Social Care Standards

The Pathway and Standards complement, align with, provide further context, and give unique voice to the Health and Social Care Standards. Both sets of standards apply for all children in, or on the edges of, secure care, with this section providing illustrative links between this standard and the Health and Social Care Standards.
  • 1.2 My human rights are protected and promoted and I experience no discrimination.
  • 2.3 I am supported to understand and uphold my rights.
  • 2.4 I am supported to use independent advocacy if I want or need this.
  • 2.6 I am as involved as I can be in agreeing and reviewing any restrictions to my independence, control and choice.
  • 2.9 I receive and understand information and advice in a format or language that is right for me.
  • 2.10 I can access translation services and communication tools where necessary and I am supported to use these.
  • 2.12 If I am unable to make my own decisions at any time, the views of those who know my wishes, such as my carer, independent advocate, formal or informal representative, are sought and taken into account.
  • 3.24 If I might harm myself or others, I know that people have a duty to protect me and others, which may involve contacting relevant agencies.
  • 4.1 My human rights are central to the organisations that support and care for me.

Illustrative links to How Good is Our School? quality indicators

The Pathway and Standards complement, the How Good is Our School? quality indicators, with this section providing illustrative links between this standard and the quality indicators.
  • 2.1 Safeguarding and child protection
  • 2.4 Personalised support
  • 3.1 Ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion