ABSTRACT
Actively involving children is a continuous process facilitated by a participatory culture. The UN Convention establishes the principles and the standards that nation states should seek to achieve in respect of the protection, participation and provision of services to children. Children will only be able to participate in formal processes in a climate that encourages involvement and when they feel empowered. In England local authorities invest significant time and resources on care planning. It has often been said that planning is a process and indeed the Children Act Guidance says there are four aspects to planning: inquiry, consultation, assessment and decision-making. The Children Act has been described as the most comprehensive and far-reaching piece of child care legislation enacted in England. Moreover the Act has to be viewed as more than the details of the statute. It was built upon clearly articulated principles and is accompanied by very detailed Regulations and Guidance.
