This consultation explored what children with disabilities say they need to be healthy, happy, safe and to have their say in their lives. Children identified what can get in the way of realising their rights and what actions can be taken to support the realisation of rights for children with disabilities.

The work was undertaken with the support of colleagues in a number of settings with whom the children have day-to-day relationships. In each setting and with each child, the engagement was framed around how they communicate and how they best understand, engage and share views. Our engagement with the children was informal, using props, creative activities, observation and communication devices to help make the sessions enjoyable, accessible and focused.

Children’s Parliament staff worked across four settings – three special schools and an after-school
club. While the participating children were aged between 6 and 13 years old, their needs and abilities determined that they were best supported within a primary school setting.

In total, 24 children (15 boys and 9 girls) took part in the consultation. These children experience
a range of disabilities and additional support needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD),
deafness and severe hearing impairment, moderate visual impairment, profound and multiple
learning disabilities, and chronic health conditions.