The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) is an international treaty adopted by the United Nations in 1989. It came into force internationally in 1990 and was incorporated into Scottish law in 2024. The Convention sets out the rights of every child and young person under the age of 18.
The UNCRC places duties on public authorities, including housing associations, to ensure that children's rights are considered when making decisions and delivering services.
It also provides children and young people with routes to challenge public authorities if they believe their rights under the UNCRC have not been respected.
The UNCRC contains several core principles and rights which promote the view that every child has the right to be safe, healthy, educated, respected and listened to.
The UNCRC is relevant to the Association's role as a landlord, as our policies and procedures can directly affect children living in our homes, as well as those living in households where housing applications have been submitted.
Over the next year (2026/27), Maryhill Housing will review a number of key policies and procedures to ensure that they remain compliant with the requirements of the UNCRC.
Further information about the UNCRC can be found on the Scottish Government's website.