Research Project - Childrens Rights in Healthcare Settings

Description

The Ombudsman for Children has an overall statutory mandate to promote the rights and welfare of children living in Ireland, without prejudice. The OCO is commissioning this research project in accordance with Section 7(3) of the Ombudsman for Children Act, 2002 as well as the OCO’s positive obligations under the this Act to:- encourage public bodies, schools and voluntary hospitals to develop policies, practices and procedures designed to promote the rights and welfare of children (7(1)(b));- collect and disseminate information on matters relating to the rights and welfare of children (7(1)(c));- consult with groups of children and highlight issues relating to the rights and welfare of children that are of concern to children themselves (7(2)(a) and 7(1)(e)).The overall aim of this research project is to assist the OCO in setting a standard of good practice in fostering a culture of respect for children’s rights in healthcare settings attended by children and young people under 18 years of age. As such, the focus of the research will be on professional attitudes, behaviours and practices in relevant healthcare settings, which demonstrate and promote a respect for children and their rights.In identifying good practices, the research will also specify any policies, procedures and/or other supports that have proved essential as regards developing and sustaining these good practices.It is anticipated that implementation of the research will involve:- desk-based secondary research to identify examples of relevant good practices in primary and secondary healthcare settings in Ireland and in other jurisdictions;The research will:- be solution-focused, with the findings that could be mainstreamed in primary and secondary healthcare settings for children in Ireland in the context of the current climate;- support a follow-up piece of work by the OCO with children and young people during 2011, which will focus on encouraging and promoting a culture of respect for children and