New government policy aims to 'put children first'

The document sets out principles to be followed by government departments

Newly published proposals by the Isle of Man government plan to put children's needs and experiences "at the heart" of future policy making.

The child first policy outlines a framework to ensure government decisions, policies and programmes prioritise the best interests of young people.

Cabinet office minister David Ashford said the plan reflected children's voices and placed "their hopes and concerns at the centre of decision making" by departments.

Set to be put to Tynwald in October, the document suggested recent changes to school meal and oral health schemes, and better access to mental health services, were examples of "the policy in action".

The framework would formalise "an attitude that is already deeply rooted in many areas", and "drive to embed this approach throughout public services", it said.

'Actively listening'

A department spokeswoman said "scores" of young people contributed to shaping the approach through schools and written submissions, and by taking part in focus groups.

The children who responded said they wanted to access better services, see stronger support for families and be more involved in decisions that affected their lives.

Based on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, the document sets out a host of principles and practices that should be followed by departments to demonstrate the approach.

They include actively listening to children's voices and striving for the "maximum positive impact on children" to be considered when decisions were made.

Training in children's rights and how to incorporate them when developing and implementing policies was also being provided to government ministers, department members and to public service staff, the document explained.

"Every child deserves to grow up safe, supported and heard", Ashford said.