Legislation and Government Guidelines

Children’s rights are set out inthe UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, andSection 104 of the Constitutionstipulates that the best interests of the child must be a fundamental consideration in all cases.

In addition, the Health Personnel Act sets out specific requirements for health personnel when dealing with situations involving children as next of kin.

Section 10a of the Health Personnel Act- Health personnel’s duty to help safeguard minor children who are next of kin to parents or siblings

Section 10b of the Health Personnel Act- Health personnel’s duty to help safeguard minor children who have lost a parent or sibling

Section 25, third paragraph, of the Health Personnel Act- Information provided to collaborating personnel

Section 3-7a of the Specialist Health Services Act- Personnel responsible for children

The Next of Kin Guideconcerns the involvement of and support for next of kin throughout the health and care services. The guide describes the rights of next of kin and the duties of the health and care services, and provides recommendations for good practice.

Management and quality improvement in the health and care services - Guidance on legislation and regulations

Early identification of vulnerable children and young people - National professional guideline - National guide

Cooperation on services for children, young people and their families.