I have a disability

The UNCRC Article 23 is about children with a disability.  It says that "A child with a disability has the right to live a full and decent life with dignity and, as far as possible, independence and to play an active part in the community. Governments must do all they can to support disabled children and their families". 

This leaflet is full of feedback about feeling safe and unsafe

from children and young people in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Many young people have some kind of learning, sensory or physical disability. Unfortunately we know that if you have any kind of disability you are more likely to experience bullying or abuse of some kind. That is not ok and it is important that you know how to stay safe. It is also important that you know what to do if you believe you are being abused or if you are worried about it happening.

We worked with Active8, a Cornish charity which aims to empower and motivate young people aged 14-30 years old, who have a physical disability about what feels unsafe and they produced this brilliant video -

Some children and young people need support from friends or trusted adults to make sure they are able to communicate their views and feelings.  We worked with CAAP to develop some Top Tips when communicating with me, and have a look at this information from our recent conference Inclusive Communication - Safeguarding Children and Young People with Disabilities.

Some children and young people need support to move around and carry out day to day tasks including washing, showering or getting dressed. This means that they might have different adults help them with this.  If something does not feel right or you know someone is hurting you or taking advantage of you, say NO and tell someone you trust or contact someone for help

Here are some other sources of advice and guidance about different areas of your life, have a look at the links below: 

Hearing impairments

Physical disabilities

Dyslexia or Learning disability

Childline Resources Autism  National Autistic Society - resources for teenagers

Council for Disabled Children

Action for Children

A Local Offer explains what you are entitled to in order to have opportunities and be included like all other children.

• Information about the Isles of Scilly Local Offer is available here
• You can find out more about the Cornwall Local Offer here or watch this film....

For older young people and young adults, here is further advice and blogs about housing, further education, employment, transport, relationships and travel.