Protecting children is our priority
renfrewshire’s education convener has thrown his weight behind a proposed piece of legislation that gives children more protection.
Councillor Jim Paterson says the Children (Equal Protection from assault) (scotland) Private Members’Bill would rightly give youngsters the same rights as adults.
He explained:“Children should feel safe and respected in their family home and we know that physical punishment can damage their mental health and prevent them from forming healthy relationships with parents or family members.
“Ensuring children have the same rights of protection from assault as an adult is vital and I welcome the values behind this proposed bill.
“Parenting is a difficult job. However, children don’t need to be disciplined through violence.
“Moving away from physical punishment to more positive and less damaging means of discipline and guidance is not only good for children, it is also better for parents and family units.
“this proposed bill firmly puts the role of protecting children from harm in everyone’s hands.
“If this bill becomes law, we will have taken a significant step forward in ensuring children are safeguarded from harm.”
Councillor Paterson, convener of renfrewshire Council’s Education and Children’s services Policy Board, says the move would bring legislation into accordance with united nation’s Convention on the rights of a Child.
He added:“anyone with concerns about a child at risk of abuse or neglect should contact the council’s child protection team on 0300 300 1199.”