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* ^6BASIC RIGHTS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE IN SCOTLAND - HYPERTEXT PROGRAMME^0
^1@Intro[!A^0. ^bWhat "Rights" are all about^b] ^1@Abuse[!N^0. ^bAbuse - Saying NO!^b]
^1@Safe[!B^0. ^bStaying Safe^b] ^1@fam[!O^0. ^bFamily Separation^b]
^1@UN[!C^0. ^bUN Convention on Childrens Rights^b] ^1@polis[!P^0. ^bYou & the Police^b]^0
^1@Ages[!D^0. ^bAge Limits^b] ^1@legaid[!Q^0. ^bLegal Aid^b]
^1@Disab[!E^0. ^bYoung People with Disabilities^b] ^1@court[!R^0. ^bThe Courts^b]
^1@Education[!F^0. ^bEducation Rights^b] ^1@sex[!S^0. ^bSex^b]
^1@Child[!G^0. ^bChildren's Hearings^b] ^1@aids[!T^0. ^bAIDS^b]
^1@Care[!H^0. ^bRights in Care^b] ^1@gays[!U^0. ^bGay & Lesbian Rights^b]
^1@Leaving[!I^0. ^bClaiming Benefit^b] ^1@hous[!V^0. ^bHousing^b]
^1@Govt[!J^0. ^bGovt Training Schemes^b] ^1@race[!W^0. ^bRacial Discrimination^b]
^1@Work[!K^0. ^bRights at Work^b] ^1@drink[!X^0. ^bDrink & Drugs^b]
^1@women[!L^0. ^bRights for Women^b] ^1@leis[!Y^0. ^bLeisure & Recreation^b]
^1@Vio[!M^0. ^bViolence against Women^b] ^1@uadd[!Z^0. ^bUseful Addresses^b]
^b You can look at any of these sections by using the letter to choose
it from the menu, or 'clicking' on the heading with a mouse.^b
^b^1@?[F1] Keys to press & Programme Help^b^0 ^b^1@![F3]^0^6 How to get the book ....!! ^b^0
^b^1@*[F2] Return to this screen^b^0 ^b^1Ctrl & F5 to F8 Insert Bookmarks^b^0
intro INTRODUCTION - What "RIGHTS" are all about.
You have lots of "rights" which you don't have to argue for, and therefore
probably don't think about a lot. Many of these, such as the right to
health care, are listed in the UN Convention on Children's Rights. You'll
probably only think about discussing your "rights" when things aren't going
quite the way you want them to.
The law about your rights is not always clear, but even when it is you may
not be treated properly or get your full rights. If you don't, try not to
make demands in a rude or aggressive way, as this certainly won't encourage
others to treat you properly (don't forget you've also got a right to
complain later). Where your rights are not clear, the issue may have to be
decided by the courts.
One of your rights, is the right to the information you need to help you
make sensible decisions for yourself, another is the right to have your
views listened to, and taken seriously. But remember, we are all fairly
powerless when we have to deal with those in authority, ^b^6so if you're not
sure, it's best to get advice from a lawyer, an advice worker or a youth
worker who may have more knowledge and perhaps more power than you.^0^b
^b^2This guide can't cover everything there are always exceptions to every
rule.^0^b
safe Staying Safe
The information in this programme is designed to help you avoid risks, such
as the risk of getting pregnant if you have sex without using a
contraceptive. This section covers more general issues which you need to
think about in ordinary situations, and which you might not think are risky
until it's too late. The most important thing is to get informed, to get
the facts you need. DON'T WORRY ABOUT LOOKING STUPID - STAY SAFE.
^1@bbsafe[!a. ^0^6^bBabysitting^b^0] ^1@hksafe[!c. ^0^6^bHitchhiking^b^0]
^1@fjsafe[!b. ^0^6^bFinding a Job^b^0] ^1@street[!d. ^0^6^bSafety on the Street^b^0]
Whatever the issue, if something happens to you that you're not happy about
you have the right to talk to someone about it ^band be taken seriously^b. You
might want to @talk[^1talk to Childline, or one of the other helping agancies.^0] If
you don't feel able to talk to your parents about things which might be
embarassing, try to find a youth worker, an advice worker or a social
worker, who can advise you about whether to talk to the police. Staying
safe is about avoiding risks. Other risks include:
^1@sex[!1. ^0^2^bGetting pregnant^0^b] ^1@abuse[!4. ^2^bChild Abuse^b^0]
^1@aids[!2. ^0^2^bCatching HIV^0^b] ^1@vio[!5. ^2^bViolence against Women^b^0]
^1@drink[!3. ^0^2^bUsing Drugs^0^b] ^1@race[!6. ^2^bRacial abuse^b^0]
bbsafe Babysitting
If you've seen an advert for a babysitter, and you don't know the person,
ring, and arrange to visit them first, with a friend. so that you can make
sure you feel safe with the people you'll be babysitting for. ^bRemember - a
lot of abuse or assault is done by people that the victim knew already.^b
If you're going to be out late, make sure that you'll get a lift home
afterwards, or money for a taxi so that you won't be left to walk home late
at night when there aren't many buses around.
Check that the house is locked, and that you know where the people have
gone, and that you know where to reach them in an emergency. Take care if
anyone comes to the door that you don't know, and don't announce that
you're alone by telling someone who phones that you're "just the
babysitter" or that the owners will be "out for hours yet".
If you're over 16, you will be responsible for anything that goes wrong,
check out the @oth[^1"Age Limits"^0] section, which more about the responsibilities
of those who use, or provide a babysitting service. If you want more
information about babysitting, you can get a leaflet from the Royal Society
for the Prevention of Accidents or the @childlaw[^1Scottish Child Law Centre^0].
fjsafe Finding a Job
If you see an advert for a job which involves your going to meet your
employer alone, try to get a friend to go with you, ^bat least tell someone
where you're going^b. Check out jobs that seem to offer lots of money to
people without much experience or qualifications very carefully, because
there may be something suspicious about them.
street Safety on the Streets
Many of the same issues apply to being safe on the streets (especially if
you live in a large town or city). Most of the basic precautions are
obvious, but it's easy to get careless:
1) Avoid dark unlit areas late at night, and choose a route you know, so
that you know where the phone boxes are etc. If you're waiting for a bus
try to wait in a well lit spot, and perhaps near to other groups of
people (although it's best to do what ^byou^b feel safe doing).
2) Try to always have some change with you so that you can get a bus if
you have to (don't be afraid to get a taxi if you feel at risk - even if
you haven't got the money - drivers won't mind waiting at the other end
while you get some money from the house - if you've got any!).
3) If you think you're being followed, cross the road, looking over your
shoulder as you go, so that you can see who it is, and if you still
think you're being followed go into a pub or shop where you can ask or
phone for help.
4) If you're a young woman, you might consider going to a self defence
class, or carrying an alarm.
hksafe Hitch Hiking
If you live in a rural area where there aren't many bus services, or the
costs are very high, and you need to hitch lifts, be very careful.
a) try to get lifts from well lit public places, from women or couples.
Don't get in the back of a two door car.
b) try not to hitch alone and, most importantly ^bgo with your instincts^b, if
you don't feel comfortable, ^6SAY NO^0.
c) for more tips, look at one of the books on hitching, like the
"Hitchhikers Guide to Europe".
talk Someone to talk to...
@ccl[^1Childline Scotland^0] is a 24 hour helpline for children and young people in
trouble or in danger. You can phone FREE on: 0800 1111 from anywhere in
Britain.
Childline also has a special number for young people who are in care, which
you can also phone FREE on 0800 884444. You don't have to give your name, and
you don't need to worry about calls to childline showing up on phone bills,
because they are FREE, so they're not listed. If you'd rather write to
Childline, the address is:
Childline
Freepost 1111
Glasgow, G1 4BR
^2Youth Access^0 - is an organisation which promotes youth counselling services.
They should be able to give you the numbver of a service near you. THeir
number is: 0533 558763
You can also phone the @childlaw[^1Scottish Child Law Centre^0] for advice on: 0800 317 500.
If they can't help you themselves, they will be able to put you in contact
with another person or organisation who can.
un The United Nations Convention on Children's Rights
The Children's Rights convention was agreed by the United Nations in
November 1989. It lists 40 rights or protections that every child is
entitled to, if their country has signed the convention. It took over ten
years of discussion before enough countries agreed to the Convention for it
to be passed, and a further two years before the United Kingdom agreed to
accept the basic protections for children which the convention contains.
^bThe convention is based on the principle that every child and young person
in the world, regardless of their sex, their colour or whether they are
rich or poor has equal rights which should be respected^b. It is recognised
that because children are more vulnerable to mistreatment and abuse, they
need special care and protection. ^6The convention is like a set of good
standards which Governments agree to stick to. It's not enforcable like
some rights, so you can't go to court if you aren't treated in the way the
convention says you should be^0. Some people and agencies still feel that
@conun[^1some children are still treated less favourably in the UK^0] than the way in
which the convention lays down. The Convention is too long and complicated
to copy out in full, but some of the principles are listed on the following
screens. ^2If you want further information you should contact the Children's
Rights Development Unit at the @childlaw[^1Scottish Child Law Centre^0].^0
@unpg1[^1Articles 1-19^0] @unpg2[^1Articles 20-32^0] @unpg3[^1Articles 33-40^0]
unpg1 ^6The UN Convention on Children's Rights - Page 1^0
a) Every child, regardless of race, colour, sex, language, religion or
disability should be protected from every kind of discrimination (Article 2)
b) Everyone dealing with children & young people, is obliged to provide the
protection & care which puts the child's best interests first (Article 3).
c) Every child who is capable of forming an opinion, shall be given the
opportunity to express their point of view and have it taken into account,
whatever the procedure (Article 12).
d) No child should be separated from their parents against their will unless
it is in their best interests (e.g they are being abused). (Article 9)
e) Applications for a child or their parents to enter or leave any country in
order to reunite their family should should be dealt with quickly and
kindly. If a child's parents live in different countries, the child should
have the right to keep in touch with each of them on a regular basis
(Article 10)
f) Children should have the right to freedom of thought, conscience and
religion (Article 14)
g) Every child should be protected from neglect or abuse (Article 19)^b
@unpg2[^1Articles 20-32^0] @unpg3[^1Articles 33-40^0]
unpg2 ^6The UN Convention on Children's Rights - Page 2^0
g) Children who are seeking refugee status, or who have already been deemed to
be a refugee under international law should be offered special protection
(Article 22)
h) Children with handicaps should be offered special help to achieve the
greatest possible self reliance so that they can lead a full and active
life (Article 23)
i) Children should be protected from disease by high quality health care
services (Article 24).
j) Children and their families should be entitled to social security benefits
(Article 26)
k) Every country should ensure that parents are able to provide their children
with adequate food, clothing and housing (Article 27)
l) Children all have the right to an education (Article 28)
m) Children should be protected from doing work that might damage their health,
or from working too long (Article 32)^b
@unpg1[^1Articles 1-19^0] @unpg3[^1Articles 33-40^0]
unpg3 ^6The UN Convention on Children's Rights - Page 3^0
n) Children should be protected from harmful drugs (Article 33)
o) Children should be protected from sexual exploitation (Article 34)
p) Children should be protected from slavery (Article 35)
q) Children should be protected from torture or other degrading treatment,
and if deprived of their liberty should not be kept with adults (Article 37)
s) Children should be protected during war (Article 38)
t) Children accused of an offence should be informed of the charges against
them and offered legal assistance to defend themselves against the charge
(Article 40)^b
@unpg1[^1Articles 1-19^0] @unpg2[^1Articles 20-32^0]
^bDespite these protections the Children's Legal Centre has expressed concern
that @conun[^1in some ways children are still treated less favourably in the UK^0] than the
way in which the Convention lays down.
^2For further information contact the Children's Rights Development Unit which
is based at the @childlaw[^1Scottish Child Law Centre^0^b].^0^b They are organising what's going
on for the convention, and will be interested to hear your views.
conun Some of the concerns expressed by the Children's Legal Centre.
It may sound as if everyone living in the United Kingdom must have all of
these basic rights. But:
1) UK immigration laws don't always allow children to stay with their
parents as stated in Article 10;
2) as young people aged 16/17s are not treated as children they are not
protected from harmful work or long hours as was stated in Article 32;
3) as there is not always be suitable accommodation available children are
sometimes locked up in adult prisons even though Article 37 states that
this should not happen;
4) children are still not always allowed to explain their point of view as
Article 12 says they should be able to;
5) the law still allows the hitting of children despite Article 19;
6) despite Article 27 young people aged 16/17 are not entitled to social
security benefits, and many are homeless.
Article 42 says that every country should make sure everyone knows about the
convention. Some areas have therefore adopted their own Charter of
Children's Rights, and others have appointed a Children's Rights Officer.
Children's Charters may be local statements about what the authority think
should happen, rather than what actually happens at present.
ages ^6AGE LIMITS^0
This is a list of the ages at which you're first ^b^6legally allowed^0^b to do
something. However, whether you will ^b^6actually^0^b be able to do something
usually depends on other people (like your parents), agreeing. One example
of this is the age at which you're first allowed to buy a pet. What the law
says, is that ^6no one is allowed to sell you a pet if you're alone, until
you're over 12^0. However, if you live at home it wouldn't be any use buying
a pet, until you'd talked to your parents about it and got them to agree.
The law in Scotland governing the age at which young people aged under 18
can do certain things, was changed ^b^6in September 1991^0^b, when a new law was
introduced. The new law is called the "Age of Legal Capacity (Scotland) Act
1991". The main effect has been to shift the age at which children and
young people are allowed to take legally binding decisions in their own
right from the old ages of 12 for girls and 14 for boys to one single new
age of 16. This means that in some cases young people under 16 now have
fewer rights. Since the introduction of the new law the age at which you
are able to do some things is based on ^2whether you are thought to be able
to understand what's involved^0. Some of the issues are explained below.
^2The main things changed by the Act, and your rights @nexpag[^b^1year by year^0^b], ^2are
explained on the following pages.^0
nexpag Further information on age limits
There are quite a few exceptions to the new law. For example, young people
under the age of 16 still have the right to enter into the sort of
transactions ^b^6"commonly entered into by children of their age"^0^b - such as
doing a newspaper round or having a saturday job.
Since the introduction of the new law, the age at which you are able to do
some things is now based on whether you are thought to be able to
understand what's involved. Some examples of the new law include consenting
to @med[^1medical treatment^0], changing your @rel[^1religion^0], or @rel[^1seeing information^0] which
is held on file by your school or the Social Work Department.
The Act is only 5 pages long, but the changes it made are very complicated,
as it changes to a lot of previous laws (one dating from 1474!). Because of
this, lawyers are still not sure about what the effects will be, so it is
not yet possible to say exactly what will happen in every situation.^b
^1 ╔═════════╦════════════╦════════════╦═════════╦══════════╦═══════╗
║ @0[Age 0-8] ║ @12[Aged 12-15] ║ @16[Aged 16-17] ║ @18[Aged 18] ║ @21[Aged 21+] ║ @oth[Other] ║
╚═════════╩════════════╩════════════╩═════════╩══════════╩═══════╝^0
For further information contact the @ccl[^1Scottish Child Law Centre^0^b]
med Medical Treatment
All children ^b^6whatever their age^0^b now have the right to consent to medical
treatment ^b^6as soon as they can understand what's involved^0^b (this is left up
to the doctor to decide). The law says that at 16, young people get the
full right to make their own decisions about medical treatment.
Whatever your age, everything you say to a doctor should be treated in
confidence (they shouldn't tell anyone else without your permission).
The law says you can consent to, or refuse surgical, medical or dental
treatment as soon as you understand the implications of your decision -
this also applies to contraceptive treatment. Like all other "rights"
however, it's not as simple as it sounds. In a recent Court case in England
which involved a 16 year old girl who had refused treatment for anorexia -
(the slimming illness), the Judges said that whilst the wishes of children
and young people under 18 were "important", if a young person puts their
life at risk, the Court should override the young persons views. Even
though the laws in England and Scotland are different, it would be likely
that in a similar case Scottish judges would base their decision on the
same sorts of principles. Once you understand the issue, you can also carry
a donor card to let your parents and your doctor know that you want your
organs used if you are killed in an accident.
rel Changing Religion or Seeing your File
^b^6Changing your Religion^0^b
You can choose your own religion as soon as you are thought to be able to
understand what that involves. If your parents think the religion is
harmful to you they could ask the court to intervene to protect you. Only
your parents have the right to withdraw you from religious assembly at
school (although once you are over 16 the school has to take your wishes
into account).
^b^6Seeing information which is held on file about you^b^0
Your school and your doctor will have files which contain personal
information about you (and so will the Social Work Department if you've
been in care). Although the laws governing each set of files are different,
you can ask to see any of these files. There is also a process for seeing
information which is held on computer. In all cases, you won't be allowed
to see information on anyone else (unless they agree), or any information
which might cause you any harm.
0 RIGHTS FOR THOSE AGED 0-8
^6Age 0^0 You can have a bank account!
^6■^0 You can be employed as an actor/actress (but you will need a
licence).
^6Age 5^0 You must start to get an education (usually, but not always at
school).
^6■^0 You may be given alcohol in private (at home)!
^6Age 7^0 You can take money out of your Giro or Trustee Savings Bank.
^6■^0 You can go to a film at the cinema (as long as the manager doesn't
object).
^6Age 8^0 You are considered capable of committing a criminal offence (although
you could be referred to a children's hearing before this age, but
not for a offence).
^1 ╔════════════╦════════════╦═════════╦══════════╦═══════╗
║ @12[Aged 12-15] ║ @16[Aged 16-17] ║ @18[Aged 18] ║ @21[Aged 21+] ║ @oth[Other] ║
╚════════════╩════════════╩═════════╩══════════╩═══════╝^0
12 RIGHTS FOR THOSE AGED 12-15
^6Age 12^0 You can be sold a pet.
^6■^0 You can make a will.
^6■^0 You can consent or refuse to adoption.
^6■^0 You can go to a "12" film.
^6Age 13^0 You can get a job on Saturday, and for not more than 2 hours on
school days, (not before 7am or after 7pm). During school holidays
you can work for a total of 25 hours a week if you're under 15, or
35 hours per week if you're over 15. If you're not sure, it's best
to check with the Education Authority, as they can make their own
local rules. For example, in some areas you may need a permit.
^6■^0 If you commit a very serious offence like rape or murder, you will
be dealt with by the court).
^6Age 14^0 You can own or be lent an air rifle (as long as you're supervised by
someone over 21 in public).
^6■^0 You can go into a bar with your parents as long as the owner doesn't
object, - those under 14 can only go into a bar if it has a
children's certificate from the licensing board. Otherwise they can
only go into hotels and restaurants with someone over 21.
^6Age 15^0 You can use a shotgun (if you're supervised by someone over 21 who
has a licence).
^6■^0 You can go to a 15 registered film. @16[^1Aged 16-17^0]
16 RIGHTS FOR THOSE AGED 16-17
^6Age 16^0 You can leave school.
^6■^0 You can leave home.
^6■^0 You can get married.
^6■^0 You can buy or be given drink (not spirits) with a meal.
^6■^0 You can buy fireworks.
^6■^0 You can buy cigarettes or tobacco.
^6■^0 You can consent to sexual intercourse (girls).
^6■^0 Doctors must now accept your consent to all medical treatment and
you can change your doctor (you should've been able to do this as
soon as your doctor thought you could understand what was involved).
^6■^0 You can get a full time job (and will have to pay tax and national
insurance contributions).
^6■^0 You can join a trade union.
^6■^0 Certain young people can claim Income Support. In most cases
however, you won't be able to claim income support until you are 18.
For full details see section on @leaving[^b^1claiming benefit^b^0].
^6■^0 You can apply to the Child Support Agency.
^6■^0 You can get a licence to drive a moped, tractor, mowing machine,
invalid carriage or pedestrian controlled vehicle.
^6■^0 You can get a glider pilot's licence.
^6■^0 You can be sold a lottery ticket. @np16[^1And more...^0]
np16 RIGHTS FOR THOSE AGED 16-17 - Page 2
^6^bAge 16^b^0 You can buy premium bonds or open a giro account.
^6^b■^b^0 You will usually be dealt with in the District or Sheriff Court if
you commit an offence (those under 16 would be dealt with by the
Children's Hearing system, unless the offence was a very serious
one like rape or murder, in which case those over 13 could be
dealt with by the court).
^6^b■^b^0 You can change your name, but you'll need your parents to record
the change.
^6^b■^b^0 You can carry a donor card (kidneys etc), but your parents consent
would be needed before your organs could be used.
^6^b■^b^0 You can apply for a passport (if you don't have your parents'
permission, get advice from the @uadd[^1Scottish Child Law Centre^0]).
^6^b■^b^0 Males can join the armed forces.
^6^b■^b^0 You can be elected onto the community council (some areas).
^6^b■^b^0 You can be sent to a young offenders institution.
^6^b■^b^0 You can apply for a bank account, credit or mortgage etc (although
this doesn't mean that the bank or building society have to give you
one).
^6^b■^b^0 You can enter into any legal contract (as long as the other person
agrees).
@17[^1Aged 17...^0]
17 Aged 17...
^6^bAge 17^b^0 You can get a licence to drive a car, motorbike, motortrike or
road roller.
^6^b■^b^0 You can apply for a firearms certificate.
^6^b■^b^0 Females can join the armed forces.
^6^b■^b^0 You can hold a pilot's licence.
@18[^1Aged 18...^0]
18 RIGHTS FOR THOSE AGED 18
^6^bAge 18^b^0 YOU REACH ADULTHOOD
This is now the minimum age at which ^b^6most^b^0 people can claim income support,
although there are exceptions. See section on @leaving[^1claiming benefits^0].
And ^6^b■^b^0 You can donate blood.
^6^b■^b^0 You can vote in an election.
^6^b■^b^0 You can be elected onto the community council (all areas).
^6^b■^b^0 You can take any action in court.
^6^b■^b^0 You can be tattooed.
^6^b■^b^0 You can place a bet.
^6^b■^b^0 You can drink alcohol in a pub.
^6^b■^b^0 You can be called to serve on a jury.
^6^b■^b^0 You can see any film.
^6^b■^b^0 You can drive a lorry up to 7.5 tonnes.
^6^b■^b^0 You can do anything else an adult can do ^bexcept^b .... those things
you can't do until @21[^1you reach 21^0]
21 RIGHTS FOR THOSE AGED 21
^6^bAge 21^b^0 You can drive any vehicle (lorries over 7.5 tonnes for which you need
an HGV licence, and buses carrying over 9 people for which you need a
PSV licence).
^6^b■^b^0 You can obtain a licence to sell liquor.
^6^b■^b^0 You can run a gaming shop, (bookmakers).
^6^b■^b^0 You can consent to a homosexual relationship (in private).
^6^b■^b^0 You can stand for election as a councillor or M.P.
^6^b■^b^0 You can be sent to prison.
^1 ╔═════════╦════════════╦════════════╦═════════╦══════════╦═══════╗
║ @0[Age 0-8] ║ @12[Aged 12-15] ║ @16[Aged 16-17] ║ @18[Aged 18] ║ @21[Aged 21+] ║ @oth[Other] ║
╚═════════╩════════════╩════════════╩═════════╩══════════╩═══════╝^0
For further information contact the @uadd[^1Scottish Child Law Centre^0^b]
Oth OTHER AGED RELATED ISSUES.
^b^6Babysitting^b^0
There is no specific age at which someone is allowed to babysit, but if
something goes wrong, parents who have left their children with someone
under 16 may still be liable, because a child under 16 is not legally
responsible. If you are over 16 you are legally responsible for anything
that happens to any child you are looking after.
^b^6Ear Piercing etc.^b^0
There are no real rules about the exact age at which you can have your
ears/nose etc pierced, but those under the age of 16 may not be seen as
capable of consenting to this (medical) service.
For further information contact the @uadd[^1Scottish Child Law Centre^0^b]
Disab Rights for Young People with Disabilities
Many people with disabilities have difficulty getting even the ordinary
rights that most people take for granted, because society is often too busy
seeing them as different, as second best, or as a problem to be solved.
Many disabled people that it is society that has the problem; not disabled
people. People with disabilities want to be treated as people first. They
want to be seen as individuals, not members of an anonymous group. Disabled
people want to be treated in the same way as everybody else. To help bring
about equal rights many people with disabilities believe that they should
have more power over their own lives, and in organisations which try to
meet their needs. Having power as individuals also means being free from
discrimination. ^6Unlike people who face discrimination on racial or sexual
grounds, there are no legal protections for disabled people who feel they
have been denied their "rights"^0. Some people with disabilities are
therefore setting up their own organisations or Coalitions of Disabled
People. @disadd[^1Check the disability address section^0]. People with disabilities are
individuals, and have the right to decide for themselves how they lead
their lives. @dissue[^1Click here to spot some tips:^0].
╔═════════════════════════╦═══════════╦════════════╦══════════╦══════════╗
║^b^6 See special rules about^0^b ║ @dissed[^1^bEducation^0^b] ║ @dissemp[^1^bEmployment^0^b] ║ @disstrain[^1^bTraining^0^b] ║ @dissben[^1^bBenefits^0^b] ║
╚═════════════════════════╩═══════════╩════════════╩══════════╩══════════╝^b
dissue Things to do which will help people with disabilities get their rights
It's important to allow people with disabilities the right to decide ^6for
themselves^0 how they want to lead their lives. Here are a few tips:
1) Try to treat people with disabilities just the same way as you'd treat
any of your friends, as an individual who deserves respect - as you
yourself would want to be treated.
2) Respect their right to privacy - don't ask personal questions about their
disability.
4) If a disabled person asks you for help in any way, ^bask first how you can
help, and listen to the reply^b. Don't assume that someone must need help
just because they have a disability.
5) Remember - people with disabilities have the same needs and desires as
everyone else. For example - the Brook has a special guide to
contraception in Braille for young people who are blind.
Remember - someones ability or disability depends on how easy society makes
it for them to participate. People with disabilities would be much more
"able" if they had greater access to facilities and wern't so dependent on
others to get around. Disability is also about the barriers that we create.
dissed Educational Opportunities for People with Disabilities
Educational opportunities for people with disabilities will differ
according to where you live. In some areas, education authorities make
every attempt to enable children with disabilities to attend ordinary
schools and further education courses. In other areas, provision may not be
as good, but if you have a 'record of needs' your parents must be given the
name of a person from whom they can get advice. If they don't like the
advice or the way in which your needs are being met, they are entitled to
appeal. Just before you leave school, the authority will look at whether
you would benefit from staying on at school or going to college. Before you
leave school the authority will hold a 'future needs assessment' meeting.
Try to find out when it's happening and how you can submit your views,
because you and your parents should be entitled to attend. Once you reach
16 (as long as you're still at school), you can ask for an assessment
yourself, amd submit your views in your own right.
If you have a disability and you stay on at school after 16 you will
usually be able to claim @leaving[^1Income Support^0] and @dissben[^1Severe Disablement Allowance^0].
There are a number of different sorts of help you will be able to get
including special study materials and equipment. There are also a number of
@disedorg[^1organisations which provide help and advice for disabled students^0]. This can
include support at school, or cash help with clothes, equipment or travel.
disedorg Organisations which provide help and advice for disabled students.
SKILL publish a wide variety of information sheets and publications on
education and training opportunities for young people with disabilities,
including a directory of Opportunities for School Leavers with
Disabilities. It is also available in print or on computer disk at £5.
^bSKILL 336 Brixton Road London SW9 7AA Tel: 071 274 0565^b
LEAD SCOTLAND (Linking Education & Disability) Provides free information
about educational opportunities, skills, crafts or interests. disabilities.
Can also provide home tutors. ^bLEAD c/o Queen Margaret College, Clerwood
Terrace, Edinburgh EH12 8TS^b
^bAccess Ability^b in Edinburgh promotes educational opportunities for people
over 16 with disabilities. Contact c/o The Lothian Coalition of Disabled
People. @disadd[^1Disability Addresses Section^0].
disstrain Special Rules regarding Training for those with Disabilities
For those with disabilities there are special rules relating to Government
training schemes such as YT. These are covered in the section on training.
In particular, the Enterprise Councils are required to provide those with
disabilities with the support they need to take advantage of training
opportunities.
^1@govt[!1. ^0^bGovernment Training Schemes - General Rules^b]
^1@dissemp[!2. ^0^bDisability Related Employment Legislation^b]
dissemp Employment Legislation & People with Disabilities
The Department of Employment (Jobcentre), keeps a voluntary register of
people who have difficulty getting or keeping a job because they have a
health problem or disability. Those on the register are issued with a
"Green Card", and employers with more than 20 workers must be able to show
that at least 3% of their workforce are registered as disabled. Although it
is a criminal offence for employers to break this law they can apply for an
exemption if they can show that there were no suitable disabled applicants.
Lot's of people don't like these sort of laws, and prefer to get a job on
the basis of their skills rather than on the basis of a label which says
they're disabled. Even if you don't register, it's still better to give a
potential employer full information about your disability, as you may lose
your rights (or even your job), if you have not been honest. However, these
days many good employers are making special efforts to ensure that they
give people with disabilities equal rights, so being honest about your
disability could be to your advantage.
The Employment Service has recently reorganised its service and set up PAC
teams (Placing Assessment & Counselling Teams). Job Centres also have a
variety of special schemes which can provide help to adapt premises,
provide special aids or equipment or help with the costs of travel.
dissben Disability Benefits
There are special benefits for people with disabilities, and special rules
for people with disabilities who are claiming ordinary benefits such as
income support. These rules are very complicated (as there may be a number
of different benefits you can claim), so ^b^6it's always best to get help from
an advice worker, or from a specialist disability organisation to check
which way you'll be better off^0^b. You can also call the free national
disability benefits enquiry line, who will give you advice, and send you a
claim form. ^b^6The number for the enquiry line is: 0800 88 22 00^0^b
See below for a short summary of some of the main disability benefits:
@sda[!A. ^b^1Severe Disablement Allowance^0^b]
@dla[!B. ^b^1Disability Living Allowance^0^b]
@dwa[!C. ^b^1Disability Working Allowance^0^b]
Some of the special rules for claiming income support, which, affect young
people aged 16/17 are listed in the section on claiming @leaving[^1income support^0], are
listed in the main benefits section. However, these rules, which for
example allow most young people with disabilities to claim income support
while still at school (because they are not required to be available for
work), need explaining, ^b^6so you will really need to check with an adviser^0.^b
sda Severe Disablement Allowance
Severe disablement allowance (SDA), is paid to people who have been
incapable of work for 28 weeks (196 days). The purpose is to compensate you
for lost earnings so those aged 16/17/18 can't claim if they're still in
full time education (but if you are over 19 you will be able to claim). As
you can see there are exceptions to all the rules, and there are four
different sets of rules governing people who have grown up with a
disability and for those who became disabled later. ^b^6So the best advice is
to get advice.^b^0
Most young people will claim using what's called ^6route two^0 which governs
people who have always been, or became disabled before their 20th birthday.
Once you've claimed, ^bthere are special rules (route 3), allowing to go back
onto benefit again (without having to wait another 28 weeks), if you try a
job but can't manage it^b.
Finally there is another test (route 4), for people who have have become
disabled later, who have to show that they are 80% disabled. This is done
by totting up a sum by ranking different injuries. For example: loss of an
index finger 14%, loss of a thumb 30% and loss of a hand 60%.^b
dla Disability Living Allowance
Disability living allowance (DLA) is paid to people who need help to look
after themselves or have difficulty walking. DLA which is paid direct to
the person with the disability rather than to their carer, and is paid on
top of any earnings or other income.
There are two parts to DLA - the care component and the mobility component.
The care component is paid at one of three different rates, and the
mobility component at one of two different rates. In brief these are as
follows:
^b^6Care^b^0 - ^bGET ADVICE - THE RULES ARE VERY COMPLEX^b
Higher rate (those needing both day ^b^6and^b^0 night care)
Middle rate (those needing both day ^b^6or^b^0 night care)
Lower rate (part time day care or 16+ and can't prepare a cooked main meal)
^b^6Mobility^b^0 - ^bGET ADVICE - THE RULES ARE VERY COMPLEX^b
Higher rate (unable or virtually unable to walk, or deaf & blind or severely
mentally impaired, no legs/feet or exertion dangerous)
Lower rate (needs guidance or supervision to walk outdoors or in an
unfamiliar area).
dwa Disability Working Allowance
DWA is a new means tested benefit, introduced in April 1992, which is paid
to people with a physical or mental disability which puts them at a
disadvantage when getting a job, and who work for more than 16 hours per
week. To qualify, you must be in receipt of one of the following benefits:
a) Disability living allowance, attendance allowance or mobility allowance
(these are the two benefits which the new disability living allowance
has replaced).
b) A disability premium paid in addition to income support or housing
benefit.
c) There is also an additional test which examines whether you are
disadvantaged, but new claimants are only required to sign a declaration.
If your income is greater than your applicable amount (your needs), the
difference will be reduced. In order to claim you should get a claim pack
from the post office or job centre.
You can also call the free national benefits enquiry line, who will give
you advice, and send you a claim form.
^b^6The number for the enquiry line is: 0800 88 22 00^b^0
disadd Disability Addresses
Lothian Coalition of Disabled People Disability Scotland
13 Johnstone Terrace Princes House
Edinburgh 5 Shandwick Place
EH1 2PW EH2 4RG
Tel: 031 220 6855 Tel: 031 229 8632
Disability Alliance DIAL (Advice Line)
1st Floor East Braid House
Universal House Labrador Avenue
88-94 Wentworth Street Howden East
London Livingston
E1 7SA EH54 6BU
Tel: 071 247 8776/8763 Tel: 0506 33468
Fashion Services for Opportunities for the Disabled
People with Disabilities 1 Bank Buildings
Greenfield Centre Princes Street
Green Lane London EC2R 8EU
Baildon Bridge Tel: 071 726 4963
Bradford BD17 5JS
Tel: 0274 595926 @mdia[^1More addresses^0]
Mdia More Disability Addresses
PHAB (Physically Handicapped & Able Bodied)
Princes House
5 Shandwick Place
EH2 4RG
Tel: 031 229 3559
PHAB have over 20 clubs in Scotland for 16-30 year olds. They organise
recreational events, holidays, conferences and exchanges. Contact PHAB for
local addresses.
SPOD (Association to aid the Sexual & Personal relationships of people
with Disabilities - contact head offoce for information on counsellors
in Scotland)
286 Camden Road
London N7 OBJ
Tel: 071 607 8851
The Family Fund (Produce good guide on benefits for young people with
disabilities called "After Age 16 What Next?" - costs £2.50)
PO Box 50
York
YO1 2ZX
EDUCATION Education Rights
Your parents have a ^bduty^b to make sure that you receive an education between
the ages of 5 (some children may start before or after this according to
when their birthday are), and 16. For details of school leaving dates see
section on @leaving[^1benefits^0]. This usually means just making sure that you go to the
nearest local authority school, but your parents now have the right to
choose a school, and the local authority have a duty (in most cases), to
provide a place at that school. Your parents can also send you to a private
school or educate you at home. ^bNOTE^b: If you stay at school after the school
leaving age, you acquire many more rights to make your own choices about
your education and speak for yourself in any dispute.
^bRegular Attendance^b
If you don't attend school regularly and you haven't got a @good[^1good reason^0],
your parents may be prosecuted, but this would usually only be done as a
last resort. In most cases you would be dealt with by a education welfare
officer or called before a @child[^1Children's Hearing^0]. Although both you and your
parents should first be warned about the risk of prosecution.
^1^b ╔═══════╦══════════╦═══════╦════════════╦═══════════╦════════════╦═════════╗
║ @au[Rules] ║ @hom[Homework] ║ @dr[Dress] ║ @pun[Punishment] ║ @exc[Exclusion] ║ @com[Complaints] ║ @rec[Records] ║
╚═══════╩══════════╩═══════╩════════════╩═══════════╩════════════╩═════════╝^0^b
Good Good Reasons for Not Attending School
You will be counted as having a "good reason" if:
1) ^bThe school is beyond the "statutory walking distance"^b (2 miles for children
under 8, and 3 miles for children over 8), and no transport or
accommodation is provided to enable you to attend the school. (If you live
beyond daily travelling distance, as some folk in the highlands do, the
school must provide you with a place to stay near the school, free of
charge. If they don't, it will count as a reasonable excuse for not going,
unless your parents chose a school that was a long way away).
2) ^bSickness^b: backed up by a medical certificate, if asked for.
3) ^bYou don't have suitable clothing or footwear^b for school and your parents
are eligible for financial help with this.
4) The school refuses to admit you, but not if you have been @exc[^1excluded^0], for bad
behaviour.
5) You are receiving education elsewhere, e.g. at home, so long as the
education authority are satisfied that this education is adequate and
efficient.
au The Authority of the School - Rules & Regulations
The law gives teachers the right to
act in a parent's place. What this ^1@dr[!1.^0 ^bDress & Uniform^b]
means in practice is that each Head ^1@hom[!2.^0 ^bHomework^b]
Teacher is allowed to make whatever ^1@pun[!3.^0 ^bPunishments^b]
rules they think are needed to ^1@exc[!4.^0 ^bSuspension & Exclusion^b]
maintain discipline, and protect ^1@com[!5.^0 ^bComplaints^b]
the interests of the school and the
children. Failure to obey the rules could result in your being excluded (or
suspended) from school, but the courts are only likely to support the
school's decision if the school rule in question is thought to be a
reasonable one. If you are @exc[^1excluded^0] the first right of appeal is to an
Education Appeal Committee, with a further right to appeal to the Sheriff
Court if you're still not satisfied.
Schools may try to avoid being challenged on whether they can make rules
about such things as hairstyles, by simply saying that you were a
disruptive influence, but the Court might not support them if they did
exclude you. See also @chal[^1Challenging Rules^0]
chal Challenging School Rules and Regulations
^b^6REMEMBER:^b^0 If you want to challenge any rule or punishment you will need the
support of your parents, (until you're 16), because as the school act in
your parents' place, any negotiations would have to take place between
them.
Don't forget, even when your rights are clear, you won't often get them by
making demands in an unreasonable way. You'll usually have to negotiate for
them. You'll find that those in authority always seem to have more power
than individuals.
This is why it's always worth getting advice first, or even getting the
support of someone from an advice centre, or a lawyer
dr Dress & Uniform
^bIn theory^b, schools have no power to make you wear uniform, or to stop you
wearing the clothes you want to wear (like girls wearing trousers), unless
wearing them might be dangerous in a particular lesson like woodwork or
metalwork. They can also not stop you from having any hairstyle you choose,
unless again, it might be dangerous, or bad for discipline. ^bBut^b, the school
may STILL have rules about things like hair or uniform and if you disobey
them, you may be threatened with exclusion, but the courts would not
necessarily uphold an exclusion on these grounds. The Education Authority
can give your parents money to pay for clothes, (except school uniform),
and also sports gear if it thinks that they can't afford to buy them for
you. The Local Authority could even arrange for you to be provided with
clothing of it's own. You cannot be punished for turning up at school
without clothes or sports gear if your parents can't afford it.
hom Homework
Homework will help you to do well with your schoolwork. It's therefore
sensible to do it, but you shouldn't be made to do it, or be punished for
refusing, unless your parents insist on it being done.
pun Discipline - Punishment
It's up to each Education Authority or the headteacher to decide what sort
of punishments may be used in school. ^6Any punishment given should be
moderate and reasonable.^0 Corporal punishment should now ^bNEVER^b be used in
schools, although it's still permissible in private schools which are not
publicly funded in any way.
^6Reasonable Punishments^0
A reasonable punishment might be being banned from outings, or playing in
school teams etc, (but remember that the school could stop these at any
time because they're not obliged to provide them). You should not be made
to do extra school work as education should not be seen as a form of
punishment.
^6Detention^0
Detention after school hours is not permitted unless your parents have
agreed, but you can be removed from your class during s school hours if
your behaviour is very disruptive. You should not be removed from lessons
for an unlimited period. You cant normally be punished for something that
happened outside school hours or outside the school grounds.
exc Exclusion
You can be excluded from school either for medical or disciplinary reasons.
Disciplinary reasons might include you or your parents refusing to obey the
school rules, (but this must be a serious act like assaulting a teacher or
another pupil, not a minor act like occasional swearing in class). If you
are excluded ^b^2your parents must, if possible be informed the same day and
allowed to state their case, (pupils over about 15 are normally entitled to
state their own case). The school should provide your parents with written
reasons for your exclusion, which will be needed if they want to appeal
against the exclusion. The appeal is heard by an Education Appeal Committee
and there is a further right of appeal to the Sheriff Court.^b^0
^b^6Exclusion from school does not count as a reasonable excuse for not
attending school, so it's important to get the problem sorted out as soon
as possible if you want to avoid being prosecuted.^b^0
If you want to avoid being prosecuted you'll probably either have to agree
to any conditions the school make before they'll take you back, or your
parents will have to arrange for you to be educated at another school which
agrees to take you.
rec Access to School Records
The school will have a file of information about you, containing
information on marks and descipline etc. You can get access to this file
(as long as you have your parents permission), and you have the right to
see the contents (although there are exemptions which will prevent you
seeing information supplied by other bodies such as the Children's Panel or
information which might be helpful to you - perhaps because you might not
be able to understand it). This is important, as you will want to make sure
that the information is all correct. In order to get access to the
information, you should write to the Education Authority who must reply
within 40 days.
com Complaints about your School
Complaints about teachers should be made to either the head teacher or
direct to the Education Authority. Any complaints you have about the
general running of the school could also be taken up with the school board,
^bon which pupils can also be members^b. If you are thinking of making a
complaint you should also consult your Regional councillor, but you should
always GET ADVICE.
Further information:
There is a really good book called "The Law of the School" which has been
written by the Scottish Consumer Council, it's meant for parents but it's
clear and very easy to understand.
You should be able to get your local library to get you a copy, or it costs
£5.95 from bookshops.
Child Children's Hearings
If you're under 16 you can be referred to a Children's Hearing for a number
of reasons:
╔══════════════════╗ ^b^6Choose one of the highlighted^0^b ╔═════════════════╗
║ @grn[^1Referral Reasons^0] ║ ^b^6topics, which will describe^0^b ║ @CHwho[^1Who'll be There^0] ║
╚══════════════════╝ ^b^6the Children's Hearing System^0^b ╚═════════════════╝
╔══════════════════╗ ^b^6in detail.^0^b ╔═════════════════╗
║ @Ref[^1What will Happen^0] ║ ║ @CHsafe[^1Safeguarders^0] ║
╚══════════════════╝ ^b^6You can only be referred for^0^b ╚═════════════════╝
╔══════════════════╗ ^b^6one of the official referral^0^b ╔═════════════════╗
║ @Right[^1Your Rights^0] ║ ^b^6reasons.^0^b ║ @Chdis[^1Panel Decisions^0] ║
╚══════════════════╝ ╚═════════════════╝
╔══════════════════╗ ^b^6If you need someone to help^0^b ╔═════════════════╗
║ @Chadv[^1Getting Advice^0] ║ ^b^6represent your interests the^0^b ║ @CHapp[^1Appeals^0] ║
╚══════════════════╝ ^b^6Panel may appoint a person^0^b ╚═════════════════╝
╔══════════════════╗ ^b^6called a Safeguarder.^0^b
║ @Chrep[^1Reports Required^0] ║
╚══════════════════╝
Grn The Grounds for Referral to a Children's Hearing
1) You have committed an offence.
2) You have failed to attend school regularly without a @good[^1good reason^0].
3) You are thought to be beyond the control of your parents.
4) You have been neglected assaulted or abused by your parents, or anyone
responsible for your care, or you stay in the same household as someone
who has committed an offence against a child.
5) You have been the victim of @abuse[^1incest^0] or any other offence of a sexual
nature, (this applies to anyone under 17).
6) You are exposed to moral danger e.g. someone has been taking indecent
photographs of you.
7) You have been found sniffing glue or some other solvent.
8) You are already in care, and the residential unit where you stay has
asked for permission to put you in secure accommodation (a locked room,
or locked section of the home), at some time during the next three
months, because you have run away before, and they feel you may run away
again, and may be at risk, or injure yourself or others. There are
detailed rules which govern how long you can be kept in secure
accommodation before a Hearing has given permission.
ref Referral to a Children's Hearing
Anyone can refer you to a Hearing, (including yourself), but it will
usually be done by your school, the police, or the Social Work Department.
The person who deals with the referral and decides whether or not to call a
Children's Hearing is called the Reporter, he/she is a paid member of staff
whose job is also to advise the members of the Children's Panel (who are
trained volunteers).
The job of the Children's Hearing is to make a decision which is in your
best interests, (not to hand out punishments) and only to do this if they
think you might need compulsory care. So, the reporter may decide to:
a) Take no action at all
b) Refer you to the Social Work Department for Voluntary Supervision (this
means that, if you and your parents agree, a social worker will meet you
now and again to talk about how you are getting on).
c) Call a Children's Hearing - the Reporter will only do this if he/she
thinks you are in need of compulsory care.
NOTE: You can only be dealt with by the Children's Hearing if you are
referred for one of the reasons called the @Grn[^1Grounds for Referral^0].
Right Your Rights at a Hearing
If you have to attend a Hearing you must be told by letter at least 7 days
beforehand, (unless you have been taken into care in an emergency when you
must be brought to a Hearing within 7 days or released). The letter will
tell you the reason why you have been called - The @grn[^1Grounds for Referral^0],
and before the Hearing can proceed you must both understand these reasons,
and accept that they are true.
If you do not accept that the grounds for referral are true, you should
still attend the Hearing where the panel members will have to decide
whether you would have been in need of compulsory care, if not, they will
take no further action - this is called 'Discharging the Grounds for
Referral'.
If the Reporter decides that the reason for your referral did justify some
sort of compulsory care, your case will go to the Sheriff, who will
consider the evidence and make a decision. You can get Legal Aid for a
lawyer to represent you in court, (this hearing will only be attended by
you, your parents, the Reporter and your lawyer). The Sheriff can decide
that the grounds are Proved a send you back to the hearing, or dismiss the
case. ^2Remember: YOU YOURSELF can still refuse to accept the grounds for
referral even if your parents think they are true.^0
CHADV Getting Advice about Hearing's
Get advice - Either you or your parents can apply for Legal Aid under the
Legal Advice and Assistance scheme, (this will pay for a lawyer to give you
advice BEFORE a Hearing, NOT at a Hearing). A lawyer could advise you about
such things as:
a) Why you have been called to the Hearing.
b) Whether to accept the Grounds for Referral.
c) How to present your case at the Hearing.
d) You may also want advice about whether to accept the decision of the
hearing, or whether to appeal if the decision seems unfair or
unsuitable, (see next section under Disposals).
It is best to check that the lawyer knows something about the Children's
Hearing system, (which doesn't operate on the same sort of rules as the
courts), as not many do. It may not be all that easy to do this, but there
are lists of the sorts of cases that each lawyer specialises in, or staff
at a youth project or an advice centre may be able to help.
CHREP Reports for a Hearing
Before the Hearing you will be visited by a social worker who has to make a
report about your home, and the way you live. If you are going to accept
the Grounds for Referral you should co-operate with the social worker (as
they may recommend that no further action should be taken). ^bIf you do not
intend to accept the Grounds for Referral, you should tell the social
worker this, and you do not need to have anything more to do with them
unless you want to, (although the social worker may go ahead and prepare
reports regardless, so it may still be worth telling them your views)^b. Ask
the social worker what is in the reports, as you have the right to be told
the gist of what's in them (some social workers may let you see them).
Your teachers may also be asked to write a report about how you're getting
on at school, but you don't need to discuss the reason why they have been
asked to write the report.
^2If you don't agree with the reports or don't know what's in them, get
advice. You can write your own report, or get a friend, lawyer or advice
worker to help you. You should then send the report to the Reporter, (the
social worker will tell you the address or you'll find it in the phone book
under Children's Hearings) who will make sure that the panel members each
get a copy before the Hearing.^0
CHWHO Who will be at the Hearing ?
There will be the Reporter, and the three panel members who will make a
decision after reading the reports and discussing your situation with you,
your parents and your social worker. You have the right to take someone to
the Hearing with you to speak on your behalf, (there is no Legal Aid for
this, but some lawyers will do it for nothing). Most advice centres will
also send someone for nothing, but you could also take a friend or
relative. The law insists that your parents attend the Hearing and they
have the right to attend every part of it (unless you want to speak to the
panel alone, but your parents would have to agree to leave). You should
also be there all the time, but the panel might ask you to leave if they
feel that something they are discussing might upset you. Any decision that
the panel make, should be made while you and your parents are there, if you
don't think this has happened, you can appeal.
If you are not accepting the Grounds for Referral the panel should not try
to make you change your mind.
If the Reporter or the panel try to change the Grounds for Referral you
don't have to accept them, (even if they sound fair), unless you want to,
because you're allowed 7 days to think them over and get advice.
CHSAFE Safeguarders
If the Chairperson of the panel is worried that there is no one to look
after your interests because for instance, there is an argument between you
and your parents, they can appoint someone called a ^bSafeguarder^b whose job
it is to represent your interest (but remember, this might not be the same
as representing your views).
CHDIS Hearing Disposals
The decision of the Hearing is called a Disposal, and you must be given clear
reasons for the decision. You are entitled to have the reasons in writing if
you ask, you will need them if you want to appeal.
Possible disposals
1) The Hearing can take no action - discharge the Grounds for Referral.
2) The decision could be delayed while further reports are prepared.
3) You could be referred to a residential unit for up to 21 days, while
further reports are prepared, (if you are detained, you can appeal). You
have the right to be put in touch with a lawyer once you're at the unit
who will put in an appeal for you. This appeal must be heard within 3 days
of its being made, or the warrant to detain you will be cancelled.
4) The Hearing can make a home supervision requirement, this means you'll have
to meet a social worker regularly at your home or at the Social Work Office.
5) The Hearing can also make a residential supervision requirement which means
you'll be sent to foster parents or to a residential home or school (once
known as List D schools), where the staff will supervise you.
6) The Hearing may suggest some other action which you agree to, such as
attending a youth project.
CHAPP Appealing about a Decision of the Children's Hearing System
You may be able to get @legaid[^1Legal Advice^0] to help you appeal, even if you didn't
get it beforehand. You can appeal if:
a) The Hearing was wrongly conducted.
b) The reasons were wrong, unclear or you disagreed with them.
c) The Disposal was unfair or unsuitable.
d) You were not asked for your views.
How to Appeal
Go to a lawyer as soon as possible, as your appeal must be made in 21 days.
He/she will help you to prepare a statement to send to the Sheriff Clerk.
If the Hearing makes a supervision requirement and you decide to appeal,
let the Hearing know, as they may agree to delay the requirement until your
appeal has been heard. The Sheriff can: agree with your appeal, turn it
down, or ask the panel to think again.
DONT FORGET - Supervision requirements must be reviewed by the Hearing
within a year. You can ask for a review after 3 months. If the requirement
is renewed at the review you'll have to wait 6 months before you can ask
for the next review. Your social worker can ask for a review at any time.
CARE Care Away from Home
In Scotland if you are under 17 years old you may be taken into Care either
as a result of a Children's Hearing or a Court Hearing or because the
police, your parents or you yourself didn't think you were being cared for
properly at home, or you might be at risk (of hurting yourself, getting
into trouble etc).
╔═════════════════════════╗ ╔════════════════════════╗
║ @What[^1What is Care^0] ║ ^b^6If you're under 12^b^0 ║ @Carcom[^1The Complaints System^0] ║
╠═════════════════════════╣ ^b^6when you're taken^b^0 ╠════════════════════════╣
║ @Where[^1Where will you Live^0] ║ ^b^6into care you will ^b^0 ║ @Carrev[^1Reviews whilst in Care^0] ║
╠═════════════════════════╣ ^b^6usually be placed^b^0 ╠════════════════════════╣
║ @Inc[^1What will Happen^0] ║ ^b^6with a family.^b^0 ║ @Caresec[^1Secure Accommodation^0] ║
╠═════════════════════════╣ ^b^6If you're over 12^b^0 ╠════════════════════════╣
║ @info[^1Looking at your File^0] ║ ^b^6you may be placed^b^0 ║ @Carleav[^1Leaving Care^0] ║
╠═════════════════════════╣ ^b^6in a family or in^b^0 ╠════════════════════════╣
║ @Careg[^1Rules & Duties in Care^0] ║ ^b^6a residential unit.^b^0 ║ @Carhelp[^1Useful Addresses^0] ║
╚═════════════════════════╝ ╚════════════════════════╝
Unless it's an emergency, being taken into care is a big decision and
should only take place if everything else has been tried.
What What is care?
You can be admitted into care either on a voluntary basis (if your parents
are too ill to look after you, or you have been abandoned or lost etc). Or,
in an emergency, taken to a Place of Safety (this will usually be if you're
thought to be in some physical or moral danger). In this case you should be
brought to an emergency Hearing the next day (unless that's a weekend or
holiday), but you can't be kept longer than 7 days unless a Hearing says
so. Finally, you can be taken into care directly from a children's Hearing
which may name the place where you'll have to stay.
The Government are currently thinking about making a number of changes to
Child Care Law in Scotland, and although they produced a paper called
"Scotlands Children" in 1993, no final details have been announced yet.
All young people received into care have the right a review (under Section
20A of the Social Work Act) after 6 months in care, and most authorities
hold reviews more often.
Where Where Might You Placed
You may be placed in:
a) An assessment centre (not many authorities have these anymore).
b) A children's home, or young people's centre.
c) A hostel (but only if you're over 14).
d) Foster parents / community carers (substitute families).
e) A residential school with its own teachers.
f) Very occasionally you could be sent by the court to a young
offenders institution.
In an emergency you could be placed wherever there is a space but you
should usually be involved in decisions about your placement.
Before you are taken into care you will have to have a medical examination,
but if at all possible this should be done by your own doctor.
INC What will Happen now You're In Care?
Most authorities will hold a review (a planning meeting), within the first
three days of your stay in care (which you will probably be allowed to
attend), to discuss where you're going to live and to make some plans about
what should be happening now you're in care. All the people who will have
anything to do with what will happen to you while you're in care should be
present. This should include: your parents/guardians, your social worker
and possibly teacher, residential workers, foster parents etc. You do not
HAVE to be there, but if you're not there to say what you think, decisions
may be made about you without your agreement. You may feel this will happen
anyway, but at least you'll have the chance to object if you're there. If
you did not have a social worker before you came into care you should meet
him/her when the review takes place.
The review will usually discuss the reasons why you were taken into care,
and will discuss the plan for your future. You may be asked to agree to a
'contract' - an agreement between you, your social worker and the
children's home staff or foster parents about your future. You will usually
be given a 'key worker' - someone who you'll meet regularly to discuss how
you're getting on, and any other problems.
info The Information which is held on You
The Social Work Department will have a file of information about you, and
the things that happen to you, and you have the RIGHT to see the contents
(although there are exceptions which prevent you from seeing information
about other people or information which might be harmful to you - perhaps
because you might not be able to understand it). Your key worker or your
social worker may show you your file and discuss the contents. This is
important, as you'll want to make sure the information is all correct. If
you want to see your file, and haven't been able to sort this out with your
key worker or social worker, you could write to the Department formally
(keeping a copy), and ask to see your file.
Careg The Duties of the Authority & The Rules in Care
While you're in care the Social Work Dept have a duty to look after you,
and do what's best for you. This includes protecting you from bullying or
abuse, protecting your right to privacy, and making sure that you're views
are always listened to seriously. You need to be sure that if you aren't
happy with anything that's happening, you can contact a member of staff who
will talk to you about your problem. As part of their duty to make sure
that everyone in their care is protected from harm, social work units will
have rules and regulations. These are mainly designed to make sure that no
one hurts themselves or other people.
Rules and regulations about smoking, times to be in at night etc, should be
explained to you when you arrive. If you are under 16, or still at school,
you will be entitled to a weekly clothing and pocket money allowance, (the
amount depends on your age). You should be allowed to buy your own clothes,
but you may be accompanied by a member of staff.
While in care you have the right to be told about all the meetings and
decisions which will effect you and your future. If this doesn't happen, or
if you have any other complaint, you can contact your social worker, who
can call a review to discuss your @carcom[^1complaints^0], or you could refer yourself
to the Reporter to the Children's Hearing.
Carcom Complaints about being In Care
The social work department has a duty to ensure that you are cared for
properly, and given all the assistance you need while you are in care. As
part of this duty they must ensure that there is a clear way in which you
can make a complaint, ^6if anything happens which you're not happy about^0,
such as:
^b■^b You've been punished by being slapped, shaken or beaten.
^b■^b You've not been given enough privacy, in the bathroom or bedroom.
^b■^b Someone has made suggestions to you which you feel aren't right.
^b■^b Someone has shown you rude pictures or books.
^b■^b Someone has touched, (or asked to touch) parts of your body.
^b■^b You've been given no pocket money.
^b■^B You've been locked in your bedroom or other room.
^b■^b You were refused food as a punishment.
^b■^B You didnt get the clothes you needed/were given second hand clothes.
^b■^b You were made to wear your nightclothes during the day as a punishment.
^b■^b You were given medicine or tablets when you weren't ill.
Carrev Reviews for Young People in Care
Every authority must hold a review (under section 20A of the Social Work
Scotland Act), for everyone who has been in their care during the past 6
months. The people present may be include: your parents/guardians, your
social worker and possibly teacher, residential workers, foster parents
etc. You do not HAVE to be there, but if you're not there to say what you
think, decisions may be made about you without your agreement. You may feel
this will happen anyway, but at least you'll have the chance to object if
you're there. If you did not have a social worker before you came into care
you should meet him/her when the review takes place.
The meeting will usually discuss the reasons why you were taken into care,
and will discuss the plan for your future. You will probably be asked to
agree to a contract - an agreement between you, your social worker and the
children's home staff or foster parents about your future. You will usually
be told who will be your key worker - someone who you'll meet regularly to
discuss how you're getting on, and any other problems.
You may want to put your views about what has been happening to you in
writing, and get the social worker to make sure that everyone gets a copy
before the meeting.
Caresec Secure Accommodation
There are special laws governing the use of secure (locked) accommodation
for children in Scotland. The laws are complicated, so you'll need to GET
ADVICE, but basically they are as follows:
■ Secure accommodation should only be used as a last resort for those with
a history of absconding (running away), who may be at risk if they run
away or be likely to injure themselves or others.
■ Your parents must be informed immediately, and you & your parents should
be told of your right to an immediate investigation by the Reporter to
the Children's Hearing, (who must be informed within 48 hours).
■ You can only be kept in officially registered secure accommodation,
not just locked up anywhere.
■ No one should be kept in secure accommodation longer than 7 days, unless
a Children's Hearing or court have authorised it.
^6FINALLY, YOU SHOULD NEVER BE PHYSICALLY PUNISHED IN ANY SITUATION.^0
Carleav Leaving Care
If you are already in care you may stay on until you are 18, (although you
wouldn't be taken into care over the age of 17). In most cases, you will be
helped to get ready to leave care by being allowed to look after yourself,
buy and cook your own food etc. In most areas there are also a number of
supported flats run by the Social Work Department, for those who have been
in care.
The Social Work Department also has the power to give young people leaving
care financial help (through Section 24 of the Social Work Act). This
enables the Social Work Department to help anyone up to 21, (or over, if
they're in education or training), with the cost of things they need for
their accommodation (such as furniture), fees for courses or driving
lessons, or other reasonable expenses such as clothes or transport.
Before you leave care you should try to get a statement from the Social
Work Department which states what has happened to you whilst you've been in
care, where you lived and why the decisions were taken etc, as this
information will be valuable ater on when you have to answer questions
about your childhood.
Carhelp Organisations & Sources of Help for Young People In Care
Who Cares Scotland
Block 5, Unit C3 Templeton Business Centre
Templeton Street
Glasgow G40 1BA
Tel: (041) 554 4452
Who Cares is an organisation run by and for young people in care. Call
Maureen for the name and number of a contact person in your area. Who Cares
publish a regular newsletter, if you don't get your copy contact the Who
Cares office.
Childline Scotland (Special line for young people in care daily 5pm-10pm)
Tel: 0800 884444
Scottish Child Law Centre
Lion Chambers
170 Hope Street
Glasgow
G4 9BJ
Tel: 041 333 9305
leaving Leaving School & Claiming Benefit
Before you leave school, you should have received your national insurance
number, (now printed on a plastic card like a credit card). You'll need one
to get a job, and it will speed up your claim for benefit. If you haven't
received your card before you leave school CHECK with the careers office. In
most cases entitlement to benefit starts at the beginning of the term after
you leave school. There are two school leaving dates in Scotland:
^b■^b 31st May - If your 16th birthday is between the 1st March and the 30th
September.
^b■^b Last day of the Xmas Term - If your 16th birthday is between 1st October
and the last day of February.
There are therefore two @claim[^1claiming dates^0] in Scotland
^1@IS[!A. ^0^b^2Income Support for Young People Leaving School^b^0]
^1@BA[!B. ^0^b^2Bridging Allowance between Training Schemes^b^0]
^1@TempEx[!C. ^0^b^2Getting Income Support until you find a YT Place^b^0]
^1@Exempt[!D. ^0^b^2Full Entitlement to Income Support until you're 18^b^0]
^1@SH[!E. ^0^b^2Severe Hardship Regulations^b^0]
There is a more detailed menu covering all aspects of @incsup[^1Income Support^0].
IS Claiming Income Support
Most unemployed people are paid Income Support to help with their weekly
living expenses. However, the Government think that young people should
either stay at school, find a @govt[^1Youth Training (YT)^0] place, or get a job, rather
than claiming benefit. Most young people aged 16/17 therefore have no right
to claim benefit, although there are both @tempex[^1temporary exemptions^0] during the
child benefit extension period (or until you get a YT place or a job), and
@exempt[^1full exemptions until 18.^0].
The Government took benefit away from young people aged 16/17 for two
reasons. The first was because they felt that young people (who should not be
unemployed), need to 'encouraged' to join YT schemes. The second was because
they said that young people should not be encouraged to leave home because
they could get money through the benefit system.
The rules about YT and benefit state that your parents can continue to claim
child benefit for you, for 3-4 months after you leave school, or until you
find a YT place. This period is called the Child Benefit extension period. It
starts at the @claim[^1beginning of the term^0] after you leave school which you used to
be when you could start claiming benefit.
If you qualify during this period @afterchb[^1you may also qualify later if^0]:
claim Benefit Claiming Dates in Scotland
The rules previously stated that you couldn't claim until the end of the
holidays after you left school. There were therefore two official claiming
dates in Scotland (there's another one at Easter in England). The two dates
are:
1st Monday in January - extension period lasts for 12 weeks
1st Monday in September - extension period lasts for 16 weeks
The change means that for an 'extension period' of 16 weeks for summer
leavers, or 12 weeks for Xmas leavers, or until you take a YT place or a job,
your parents can continue to claim child benefit, but there will be no benefit
for you.
Exempt Young People Entitled to Benefit Until Age 18
The following groups will be able to claim benefit throughout the two-year
period until they are 18. If you are entitled to benefit for one of these
reasons there are two rates of benefit, a lower one if you are living alone
and a higher one if you stay by yourself. If you're one of a couple you only
get the couple rate of benefit if you both qualify for one of these reasons
(if not, you'll only get the single rate).
^b■^b those who are pregnant;
^b■^b those who have children, including lone parents and those caring for
foster children;
^b■^b those REGISTERED blind;
^b■^b certain young people in non-advanced education, e.g. those estranged from
their parents, orphans and lone parents;
^b■^b those who are incapable of work, e.g. because of chronic illness or
disability, but only if they are unlikely to get work within he next 12
months;
^b■^b those involved in caring for others;
^b■^b those on a training allowance (who can get a benefit 'top up');
^b■^b refugees on English courses;
@nexemp[^1More Exempt Young People Entitled to Benefit Until 18^0]
nexemp More Exempt Young People Entitled to Benefit Until Age 18
^b■^b the temporarily sick (but only after the end of the child benefit
extension period);
^b■^b those temporarily 'laid off' work, through no fault of their own
(after the extension period);
^b■^b those released from prison/detention centre who have good reason for
living away from home, but only after the extension perio and only for a
maximum of 8 weeks;
^b■^b students under 18 in advanced education, but only during the summer
vacation;
^b■^b those who would otherwise suffer @SH[^1Severe hardship^0] (this might apply to
young people who have been thrown out by their parents and who would not
be granted automatic exemption.
TempEx Claiming during the Child Benefit Extension Period
Certain categories of young people are still able to claim Income Support
during the extension period. The following young people who have good reason
for living away from their parent - which could include the local authority
- are only able to claim until they get a YT place or a job (and will have
to show the careers office that they're really looking).
^b■^b one of a married couple whose partner is over 18, or registered for work
or YT, or eligible for income support until 18;
^b■^b those with no one acting as their parent or guardian;
^b■^b those 'in care' or custody immediately before their 16th birthday, and
not living with their parents or with a close relative;
^b■^b those placed away from home under the supervision of a social worker;
^b■^b those unable to live at home because of threatened physical/sexual abuse;
^b■^b the handicapped or mentally ill, who cannot live at home but are still
capable of work;
^b■^b those whose parents are either in prison, chronically sick or disabled or
prohibited from entering Britain.
^b■^b young people who are @estr[^1estranged from their parents^0], in physical or moral
danger, or whose physical or mental health might be at serious risk.
If you qualify during this period @afterchb[^1you may also qualify later if^0]:
afterchb Claiming After the Child Benefit Extension Period.
If you belong to one of the groups entitled to claim ^bduring^b the Child Benefit
Extension Period, you may also be entitled to claim after that period ^6^bfor up
to 8 weeks^b^0 if:
^b■^b you have been discharged from custody;
^b■^b you have to live away from your parents (or anyone acting in their place),
and you are living independently following a period in care;
^bYou'll get income support for as long as you need it if:^b
^b■^b you are incapable of work for example because of a chronic illness or
disability, but only if the illness or disability will last for ^bless^b than 12
months.
estr Estranged From Your Parents?
Young people who are living away from their parents may be able to claim
income support if they are ^bestranged^b from their parents.
This means that the relationship between you and their parents has got to such
a state that it is reckoned (by both sides), to be beyond repair, or has, in
the words used to explain the law "irrevocably broken down".
BA Bridging Allowance
Once you take a YT place and are on a scheme (and you're past the end of the
extension period), if you leave the scheme for any reason you'll get a
bridging allowance of £15 per week (£3 per day), for up to 8 weeks while the
Careers Office find you another place. (If you leave during the 12 or 16
weeks 'extension period' you won't get bridging allowance, but your parents
can re-claim child benefit).
This is a maximum of 8 weeks in any 52 weeks so if it only takes you 2 weeks
to find another place you could still have 6 weeks money. But if you use up
the 8 week the first time you leave a placement, you would have to wait for
another year before you would get money again. If you refuse place, your
bridging allowance may be stopped. (Disabled young people can receive the £15
bridging allowance without time limit until they can find another place.)
^bBridging allowance is paid fortnightly, in arrears^b.
SH Severe Hardship
Those young people who don't fall into any of the above categories may be able
to qualify for benefit because: ^b^2they would otherwise suffer 'severe hardship'.
This might apply to young people who have been thrown out by their parents and
who might not otherwise be exempted^b^0. Getting an exemption because you might
otherwise suffer severe hardship can be even more difficult than it sounds.
First, you'll have to have an interview at your local Benefits Agency, who
will then send the details on to a central office in Glasgow where the
decisions are made. ^6You may be asked some very personal questions at the
interview (about why you left home)^0, but don't be deterred from claiming your
rights, ask a friend or an adviser to go the interview with you, to give you
support and act as a witness. The Benefits Agency will be looking in
particular at the following factors:
^b■^b your health, vulnerability & the threat of homelessness;
^b■^b whether you have any money or savings which would normally be ignored;
^b■^b your chances of getting a YT place or a casual job;
^b■^b whether you have any friends or relatives who might help you out.
Those in emergency overnight accommodation are 'automatically' considered for
a severe hardship exemption. If you wish to be exempted for any of these
reasons contact the Benefits Agency or any advice centre.
SI Signing On
Young people under 18 are still required to register at the careers office or
job centre. Careers offices are listed in the phone book under CAREERS SERVICE
& Job Centres are listed under EMPLOYMENT SERVICE (or ring directory enquiries
on 192).
If you're over 18 and unemployed you have to go to the Unemployment Benefit
Office to sign on. You should take your National Insurance card and your P45
(if you've been working). You will be given a UB40 (signing-on card) telling
you when your regular signing-on time will be. You have to sign on every
fortnight to say that you've not been working, that you are still looking for
work, and that you would take a job if one were offered to you.
For details of the Government's Availability For Work rules, see the section
on @govt[^1Youth Training^0].
^2^bWARNING:^b^0 If the Job Centre staff don't think you are 'actively seeking work',
you may be denied benefit altogether.
^bMore Details on next Screen! - Press Enter or click mouse button to move on ...^b
You will probably NOT be entitled to Unemployment Benefit unless you have been
working, because it's a benefit paid on the basis of the National Insurance
contributions you pay when working. The Unemployment Benefit Office, also
deals with claims for Income Support, from unemployed people not entitled to
Unemployment Benefit.
Ask for a B1 Form, fill it in, and return it to the Benefits Agency (part of
the Dept of Social Security which deals with claims), AS SOON AS POSSIBLE,
otherwise you may lose benefit. If you wish to claim benefit to help with your
rent if you're not living at home any more, you must also return the claim
form for housing benefit, to the Benefits Agency. THIS IS IMPORTANT AS YOUR
CLAIM WON'T BE DEALT WITH AUTOMATICALLY ANYMORE.
If you have difficulty filling in the form, tell the Benefits Agency or get
advice from any advice centre.
IncSup The Income Support Scheme
Income Support claimants are not paid on the basis of their individual needs.
All claimants are grouped together, for example: young people, families and
the disabled, and the people in each group are all assumed to have the same
needs. Extra money for special needs is no longer available, and householders
are not paid any extra money. One off, lump sum payments which used to be
available to help with things like furniture have now either been abolished or
replaced with loans.
Income support consists of basic benefit rates (personal allowances), with
premium additions for some groups. There are lower rates for under 25 year
olds,(as the government thinks under 25 year olds should still be living at
home with their parents).
^1@SI[!1. ^0^bSigning On^b] ^1@LG[!5. ^0^bLost Giros^b]
^1@SH[!2. ^0^bSevere Hardship Regulations^b] ^1@Student[!6. ^0^bStudent Claims^b]
^1@SSApp[!3. ^0^bSocial Security Appeals^b] ^1@SF[!7. ^0^bThe Social Fund^b]
^1@workpt[!4. ^0^bRules on Working^b] ^1@HB[!8. ^0^bHousing Costs^b]
HB Housing Costs
If you get Income Support, you can also claim housing benefit to help with
your housing costs, (unless you still live at home with you parents).
It will be paid by the Housing Benefit section of the District Council. If
you live in council accommodation, you won't receive a giro, but your rent
will be reduced, ^bperhaps to nothing^b.
If you stay in privately rented accommodation the Housing Benefit section
will issue a giro, either you or your landlord.
SF The Social Fund
If you need help with one-off purchases like furniture you may be offered a
loan (although there are still some grants for those coming out of care or
leaving detention centre). Although these loans will be interest free, they
are not easy to get, as the amount of money the Benefits Agency has for
loans is limited, so each month they can only spend a certain amount, ^6on
high priority claimants^0 (young people are not usually seen as a priority).
There are no rights, so the Benefits Agency can hold onto claims for long
enough to decide who is the most deserving. Young people are unlikely to be
seen as a high priority group, especially as the government thinks all under
25s should still be living at home wit their parents.
The total amount which will be offered as a loan is worked out by
calculating a percentage of your weekly benefit over a maximum loan period
of 18 months or less. As young people are on lower rates of benefit this
percentage won't add up to much, even if you are offered a loan. Many items
have been excluded altogether and these include deposits for accommodation
and work related expenses such as working clothes and tools.
There is a £100 Social Fund grant available for Maternity Items, it can be
applied for from 11 weeks before the birth to up to 3 months afterwards.
Student Full time students
If you are still at school or college doing a 'non-advanced' course such as
highers, you can't claim income support unless you have a child, are disabled
or have left home because you are @estr[^1estranged^0], there is a serious risk to your
health or you are in moral danger.
^6As a student you cannot claim benefit ^2at any time^0 whilst on a full time course
unless you are: a single parent, a disabled student or a student with an
unmarried partner who is ill or has a child.^0
^bStudying (Part Time) On The Dole^b
The Government have announced plans for a new schemne to start soon, but the
current rules, which are complex, are as follows: If you are under 19, which
state that if you study for more than 12 hours per week, you'll be treated as
if you're still at school, so you won't be able to claim income support unless
you are disabled, have a child, or are @estr[^1estranged from your parents^0]. If you're
over 19, you'll be able to claim benefit if for 3 out of the last 6 months
you've been on a YT course or you've been getting Income Support, Unemployment
Benefit or Sickness Benefit (SB), as long as the course doesn't last for more
than 21 hours per week, you continue to look for work and are prepared to give
up your studies straight away if you're offered a job.
Workpt Working part time
^2The rules are currently as follows, but the Government are talking about
changing them soon:^0 If you are working part-time (LESS THAN 16 HOURS PER
WEEK), you should tell the Benefits Agency. You will be allowed to keep £5 of
your net wages (after deductions). The rest will be taken off your Income
Support. If you don't declare your earnings and the Benefits Agency find out
they will make you pay back any benefit that you have been overpaid, and may
take you to court.
^bVoluntary Work:^b The Government have announced plans to change the rules soon,
but at present the rules are as follows: In future if you're doing voluntary
work the availability for work test (see section on Government Schemes) will
mean that if you still wish to claim benefit you must be available for work
within 24 hours. You must also be able to show that you're not doing the sort
of work that would normally be paid, or if you are that the person cannot
afford to pay you.
^bLooking for a full time job^b
If you want to look for work in other parts of the country you will now have
to apply for a loan from the social fund to help th the cost unless you can
get help from the Training Agency.
SSApp Social Security Appeals
╔════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╗
║ ║
║ If you disagree with a decision made by the Benefits ║
║ Agency about your INCOME SUPPORT, or you don't feel ║
║ you've been paid the right amount you can APPEAL (but it ║
║ must be within 3 months of the decision). Get the appeal ║
║ form, or just write in to the Benefits Agency (but keep a ║
║ copy of your letters). ║
║ ║
║ There is however ^bNO RIGHT OF APPEAL^b to the Social Fund, ║
║ only the right to request an internal review. ║
║ ║
╚════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════════╝
LG Lost Giros
Check with the Benefits Agency or Unemployment Benefit Office to make sure
your giro was sent out. If it was, you will need to report the loss to the
police as well as the benefit office. If the benefit office want to see you
take a friend with you to act as a witness. The Benefits Agency will probably
suspect ^bYOU^b, and will probably try to waste your time by sending you off to
the post office to check whether your giro was delivered.
Make a note of the date and time you called and what was said, once you have
phoned, write a letter to the benefit office telling them that you've not
received your giro and ^6KEEP A COPY^0, (you can't appeal against a lost giro,
but you can take the Benefits Agency or UBO to court because they are legally
obliged to pay you).
In the event of an emergency there are no more emergency payments available.
Once again, help is only available as a loan through the social fund. BUT IF
YOU'VE ALREADY HAD YOUR MAXIMUM LOAN, THERE WILL BE NO FURTHER HELP
AVAILABLE.
GET ADVICE, from the CAB or any local advice centre.
govt Government Training Schemes
Youth Training has been around for about ten years, although both the name
and the rules have changed a number of times. The present scheme is
compulsory for all but a few young people although there are a number of
exemptions such as those for young people with disabilities or with children
to look after. If you are not one of the exempted groups, however, you will
only have a few months to find a place. There is no benefit available to
those who refuse a place.
^1@AYT[!A. ^b^0About the Scheme^b] ^1@HSYT[!G. ^b^0Health and Safety^b]
^1@FindYT[!B. ^b^0Finding a Place^b] ^1@ET18[!H. ^b^0Rules for those over 18^b]
^1@INTYT[!C. ^b^0Initial Training^b] ^1@ETQUEST[!I. ^b^0The Questions^b]
^1@RuleYT[!D. ^b^0Rules & Pay Rates^b] ^1@claimad[!J. ^b^0Claimant Advisers^b]
^1@houYT[!E. ^b^0Housing Costs^b] ^1@etpun[!K. ^b^0The Penalties^b]
^1@UnYT[!F. ^b^0Unions & YT Trainees^b] ^1@LECS[!L. ^b^0Usefull Addresses^b]
AYT About the Youth Training Scheme
The Youth Training Scheme is intended to provide a flexible training course
for young people over 16. The scheme is operated for the Government by a
Local Enterprise Company. The companies have different names in each area,
for example, in Lothian Region the Company is called Lothian & Edinburghh
Enterprise Limited (L.E.E.L). Whilst on YT, trainees work for nationally
recognised qualifications awarded by SCOTVEC. The length of the training
period depends on the sort of course you decide to do.
When the Government withdrew the right to claim benefit from 16 and 17 year
olds they said that anyone under 18 who had not found a job would be
guaranteed a place until at least their eighteenth birthday. Unfortunately,
figures from careers offices show that in many areas, there are not enough
places available for this guarantee to be met, and many young people have
been stranded without either training or benefit.
If you are offered a place you would have to have a ^bgood reason for refusing
it, otherwise your benefit might be cut^b, or you could be refused a bridging
allowance.
RuleYT Rules and Rates - Young People & Youth Training
There are special rules for those with disabilities, who can join a YT scheme
at any time until the age of 23. For further information contact the Special
Needs Careers Officer.
Courses can be based with an employer, in a training workshop, or on a
community service scheme.
The present allowance (^6which hasn't gone up for many many years^0) is:
£29.50 for the first year.
£35.00 for the second year.
Some unions have, however, been able to negotiate a better rate.
Trainees are entitled to claim back travel costs over £3 per week, and they
are entitled to 1½ days holiday per month (18 days per year), although
Enterprise Councils can make their own local rules.
@ytsick[^1Sick Pay for YT Trainees^0]
YTSick Sick Pay
The basic rule is that YT trainees will be paid their
training allowance for the first three weeks, if ill, and
for the 4th week if its certain they'll be returning.
Employees would get sick pay for 26 weeks.
Local Enterprise Councils can set these rules locally.
HouYT Housing Costs for Young People on Youth Training
Unless you have your own bedsit or flat you will not receive any help with
your housing costs. This is because neither the Benefits Agency or the
Housing Benefit section of the District Council can help with the housing
costs of those living either with their parents, or with friends or
relatives.
If you are NOT living at home, however, and stay in your own room or flat,
you will probably be entitles to Income Support on top of your training
allowance in the first year of your training. This is because the benefit
rate for young people aged 16/17 who are living away from home (for good
reason), is slightly higher than the minimum first year training allowance.
In addition, you would be entitled to Housing Benefit to help with your rent.
If you are in the second year, or your employer is paying you a higher wage,
you won't be entitled to Income Support, but you'll still be entitled to
Housing Benefit on top of your YT allowance to help with your housing costs.
FindYT Finding a Place on a YT Scheme
Details about vacancies on most schemes are available through the Job
centre/Careers office, but some big shops and companies advertise their own
schemes either in the newspaper or in their shop window. There is no reason
why you shouldn't go straight to them and apply for a place. All schemes are
meant to be checked by the Enterprise Company, so you can complain if you
think you're getting a bad deal. The careers office can also advise you on
certain aspects of your training and can discuss your progress with you.
Local Enterprise Councils (LECS), are responmsible for funding and running
schemes in your area. If the Careers Office can't find you a place, you can
complain to the Guarantee Officer at the LEC office.
You will qualify for the £15 per week @BA[^1bridging allowance^0] for up to 8 weeks if
you leave your placement, but you will have to register for another place or
you will not be paid. Those who are registered as disabled can claim bridging
allowance without time limit.
If you think you were sacked from a training scheme without good reason GET
ADVICE.
INTYT Initial Training
In some areas there is a special sort of Training called
Initial Training.
Initial Training courses which can last for up to 3
months are to help those who might, for any reason have
difficulty coping with an ordinary YT placement.
If you want more information ask your Careers Officer.
UnYT Joining a Trade Union
You have the right to join a trade union, and the Transport and General
Workers union (TGWU), UNISON, and the General and Municipal Workers Union
(GMWU), are among the unions who will accept trainees as members. (Look up
the number of your local branch in the phone book).
^bWhat A Union Can Do For You^b
A union will help to represent your interests, and speak on your behalf, not
only in getting the best pay and conditions, but also in representing you if
you have an accident or any complaint against your employer.
Note: Young people on YT who are classed as trainees and not employees, used
to be denied many of the rights and protections that employees have,
(covering things like discrimination at work). The law has now been changed,
however, to prevent discrimination on grounds of sex or race, BUT trainees
are still not protected against unfair dismissal from work. The union could,
therefore, be very useful in helping with any problems you have.
HSYT Health and Safety at Work
YT trainees are covered by the Health & Safety at Work laws, (except while
they're on educational courses at college, unless these are run by the
Enterprise Company). Schemes are often not checked, however, and the laws are
often not effective. There have been a lot of accidents so MAKE SURE that you
get the right training and the right protective clothing, especially if
you're using machinery etc. If you're worried, check with your supervisor,
training officer, talk to the union or call the:
Factory Inspector (listed under Health and Safety in the phone book).
Environmental Health (listed under the District Council the phone book).
ET18 The Employment Training Scheme
The Employment Training Scheme is open to those over 18 who have to work for
their previous level of benefit plus a £10 per week 'training allowance' and
although the scheme is still voluntary that are fears that it, like the YT,
could be made compulsory.
^bAvailability & Actively Seeking work^b
Anyone over 18 'signing on' to claim benefit has to answer a set of questions
(on form ES461). The questions are to test out whether you're ^2really
available for work, actively seeking work, and are able & willing to start
work immediately^0. The questions are not easy to answer properly and you'll be
taken off benefit unless you can prove you are looking for work. The
Unemployment Benefit office staff have been advised that anyone who fills out
the form with the help of a leaflet, should interviewed by a supervisor to
make sure they're really giving honest answers. So it's best not to take this
booklet with you, ^6just think about your answers carefully before you go^0.
@ETQUEST[^1The Questions^0]
@claimad[^1Claimant Advisers^0] @etpun[^1The Penalties^0]
ETQUEST The Actively Seeking Work Questions
1) What work you normally do and what you're looking for. The staff will check
whether the work you want is available. You're only allowed to hold out for
the sort of work you normally do (or want to do), for a maximum of 13
weeks, - less, unless you have specific training or qualifications.
2) What the lowest wage you will accept is - you should state that you'll
accept the going rate for the job.
3) How far away from home you're prepared to work, and what hours you're
prepared to work. You need to have thought about what to say about taking
evening or night work, and check out where you can get to by bus etc.
4) You'll have to show that if you've got a child, you are able to arrange
childcare so that you can start work immediately.
If you do say that you don't want to take a job for any reason - for example
because it's too far to travel (perhaps over an hour each way), you'll have to
work hard to show that it's reasonable for you to refuse the job.
@claimad[^1Claimant Advisers^0]
@etpun[^1The penalties for being classed as "Unavailable for Work".^0]
ETpun The "Unavailable for Work" penalties.
You can be treated as automatically unavailable for work (for up to 6 months
or for as long as the job is vacant), and could have your benefit reduced if:
a) you fail to apply for a job - or refuse to take a job - for as long as the
job is vacant;
b) you have failed to do something to help you find a job - like attending an
interview;
c) you're over 18 and single, or one of a childless couple and you don't take
up a reasonable offer of local short time work.
In addition, you'll have to show that you're actively seeking work, (you'll
be given a form on which to record your job finding activities, which you
could be asked to show staff at any time). This means doing things like
applying for jobs by letter or phone, registering with an agency or going to
a job club. The employment service will expect you to do at least two of
these things each week. If you cant't show that you're trying hard enough to
find work, the Government plan to stop your benefit altogether.
@claimad[^1Claimant Advisers^0]
claimad Interviews with Claimant Advisers
^bThere are now special staff called claimant advisers who are there to check up
on particular groups like young people, New Age Travellers, and the long term
unemployed, who are all suspected of not doing enough to find work^b. If you are
called for an interview with a claimant adviser, it may not be easy, so take
everything you have which will help to show that you've been looking for work.
If you don't go to an interview, your benefit can be cut.
^bIT'S VERY IMPORTANT TO THINK ABOUT THE QUESTIONS CAREFULLY BEFORE YOU ANSWER,
AS ONCE YOUR BENEFIT HAS BEEN STOPPED, THE BENEFITS AGENCY WILL BE VERY
SUSPICIOUS IF YOU WANT TO CHANGE YOUR ANSWERS.^b
^2Remember what you said, as you may be asked to fill out the form again and
you'll be caught out if you give different answers.^0
^6IF YOU'RE NOT SURE ABOUT ANYTHING GET ADVICE BEFORE YOU GO.^0
LECS ^6Local Enterprise Companies^0
Borders Enterprise Dumf & Gall Enterprise Grampian Enterprise Ltd
Wheatlands Road 16 Buccleuch Street 27 Albyn Place
Galasheils TD1 2HQ Dumfries DG1 2AH Aberdeen AB1 1YL
Tel: 0896 58991 Tel: 0387 54444 Tel: 0224 211500
Lothian Enterprise Highland Enterprise Enterprise Tayside
99 Apex House The Square Enterprise House
Haymarket Terrace Grantown-on-Spey 45 North Lindsay St
Edinburgh EH12 5HD PH26 3HF Dundee DD1 1HT
Tel: 031 313 4000 Tel: 0479 3288 Tel: 0382 23100
Fife Enterprise Forth Valley Enterprise Dumbartonshire Enterprise
Huntsman's House Laurel House 2nd Floor Spectrum House
33 Cadman Centre Laurelhill Business Pk Clydebank Business Park
Glenrothes Fife Stirling FK7 9JQ Clydebank Glasgow G81 2DR
Tel: 0592 621000 Tel: 0786 51919 Tel: 041 951 2121
Renfrew Enterprise Enterprise Ayrshire Lanarkshire Dev Agency
Merlin House Glencairn Business Centre Rowantree House
Mossland Rd Hillington 17-19 Hill Street 166 Park Street
Glasgow G52 4XZ Kilmarnock KA3 1HA Motherwell ML1 1PF
Tel: 041 882 6268 Tel: 0563 26623 Tel: 0698 51411
WORK Rights at Work
Unfortunately you have few rights in your job until you've had the job for
some time. That doesn't mean that your employers can do as they please. All
workers are protected from:
a) Victimisation or dismissal for trade union activities.
b) Race discrimination.
c) Sex discrimination.
^bWomen have the right to equal pay with men.^b
The protection which the Wages Councils used to offer to those in low paid
jobs, laying down minimum rates of pay etc, has been removed from everyone
under 21 - IF YOU ARE UNDER 21 YOU ARE NO LONGER COVERED.
Every employee should receive a proper pay slip detailing what is being
deducted from their pay. Nothing else should be taken off for things like bad
work, damage etc, unless you agree in writing.
@Lwork[^1Leaving your Job^0]
Lwork Leaving your Job
If you leave your job without good reason, or you're sacked for misconduct,
your unemployment benefit may be stopped for up to 26 weeks. If this happens
you should still sign on and claim income support for these 26 weeks though
your benefit will probably be reduced to 60%. You can appeal against this
reduction if you don't think you were guilty of misconduct or you had good
reason for leaving. If you lose your job the situation becomes much more
complex as you now have few rights until you've been in the job for at least 2
years. You should therefore:
^6^bGET ADVICE ABOUT ANY PROBLEM from your union, an advice centre or a lawyer.^b^0
^2^bOther Sources of Advice:^0^b
Scottish Low pay Unit Equal Opportunities Commission
Freepost 141 West Nile Street
Glasgow G3 7BR Glasgow Tel: 041 332 8018
Commission for Racial Equality Health & Safety Executive
100 Princes Street 314 St Vincent Street
Edinburgh Tel: 031 226 5186 Glasgow Tel: 041 204 2646
WOMEN Womens Rights
Since the Sex Discrimination Act its been illegal for anyone to be treated
differently just because of their sex. Discrimination can be direct (obvious),
or indirect (may SEEM to apply to both women and men, but really affects women
far more). The Equal Pay Act made it illegal for women to be paid less for
doing the same or similar work to men working for the same emoployer.
This can be very difficult to prove, however, so GET ADVICE.
╔══════════════════════════╦══════════════════════════════╗
║ @WDis[^1Discrimination At Work^0] ║ @WSex[^1Sexual Harassment at Work^0] ║
╚══════════════════════════╩══════════════════════════════╝
Contact:
Equal Opportunities Commission
141 West Nile Street
Glasgow
Tel: 041 332 8018
WDis Discrimination At Work
This is extremely difficult to prove, and in all cases you will need the
advice of a lawyer, so, consult your trade union or a advice centre, as you
may be able to take your employer to an Industrial Tribunal.
It is illegal for your employer or anyone else to victimise you for making a
complaint or for giving evidence about a complaint.
DON'T BE PUT OFF - Although it will be difficult to win any case without the
support of a lawyer, an increasing number of cases are being won, so don't be
put off ^6if you think you've got a valid complaint GET ADVICE^0.
Claims of discrimination under the Sex Discrimination Act must be brought
within 3 months of the incidence.
Claims under the Equal Pay discrimination must be brought within 6 months.
WSex Sexual Harassment at Work
Sexual harassment goes beyond the general sexism which makes it difficult for
women to prove that they are capable of doing certain jobs. It is the way in
which men humiliate and exercise power over women at work. Harassment can
involve comments, looks, jokes, or being physically assaulted (touched up).
This sort of behaviour is not only very threatening and stressful, but makes
many women feel that in some way they themselves are to blame, and this,
together with worries about losing their jobs makes the reluctant to complain.
DON'T BE PUT OFF - Although it will be difficult to win any case without the
support of a lawyer, an increasing number of cases are being won, so don't be
put off if you think you've got a valid complaint GET ADVICE.
Claims of discrimination under the Sex Discrimination Act must be brought
within 3 months of the incidence.
Claims under the Equal Pay discrimination must be brought within 6 months.
VIO Violence Against Women
Women and girls of all ages are vulnerable to violence from men, they may be
sexually assaulted, or raped, as well as being physically attacked. They may
be subjected to physical or mental violence from husbands, boyfriends or
lovers, as well as from strangers, or they may experience sexual abuse from
members of their families (sometimes called @abuse[^1incest^0]).
Many girls and women do not report such violence to the police, or even tell
their friends or relatives, as they may feel ashamed or guilty or worry that
they may not be believed. This means that they could suffer for a long time
without sharing this with someone, or getting help or protection.
╔═══════════════════════════╗
║ ^1@RCC[!1. ^b^0Rape Crisis Centres^b] ║
╠═══════════════════════════╣
║ ^1@WA[!2. ^b^0Womens Aid^b] ║
╠═══════════════════════════╣
║ ^1@UPA[!3. ^b^0Useful Phone Numbers^b] ║
╚═══════════════════════════╝
RCC Rape Crisis Centres
Rape Cris Centres exist to offer help and support to
women and girls who have been raped or sexually assaulted
in any way. They are run by groups of women who are able
to give confidential advice and support on legal and
medical matters. You can get in touch either by phoning
or writing. If you are thinking of reporting the
rape/assault to the police it's best to get support from
the centre first, as the questioning may be upsetting.
^6The centre will support you whatever you decide to do,
and all help is confidential^0. Even if the assault
happened a long time ago you can still ring if you would
like to talk to someone.
See below for @UPA[^1addresses and phone numbers^0].
WA Womens Aid
Exists to help women who have been physically, sexually or mentally abused by
the men they live with. Local Women's Aid groups work throughout Scotland.
Most groups provide a 24 hour service and can offer:
a) someone to talk to;
b) help with practical and emotional difficulties;
c) information about your legal, housing and money rights;
d) refuge where you can stay if you want to leave a violent situation.
All enquiries are dealt with in confidence. Women's Aid groups are usually
listed in the phone book under Women's Aid and also the name of the area where
the group is situated. The number can also be obtained from the Police, CAB or
Samaritans or contact ^6Scottish Women's Aid at 11 St Colme St Edinburgh EH3 6AG
Tel: 031 225 8011^0. Women's Aid also have a range of leaflets and other
information.
@BAREF[^1There are also special Refuges for Black & Asian Women^0]
For information about sexual assault on children by members of their families,
check the section called @abuse[^1Saying No^0].
UPA ^6Rape Crisis Centres (Will put you in touch with an Incest Survivors Group)^0
Highland Ayr Dundee
PO Box 10 PO Box 45 PO Box 83
Dingwall Ayr Dundee
N15 9LD KA8 8B7 Tel: 0382 201291
Tel: 0349 65316 Tel: 0292 611298 Wed & Fri 7-9pm
Most evenings: 7-10pm Mon-Fri 9am-4pm
Wednesday 6-9pm Fife
Edinburgh PO Box 4
PO Box 120 Ayrshire Kirkaldy
Edinburgh PO Box 23 Tel: 0592 642232
EH7 5XX Kilmarnock Wednesday 7-8.30pm
Tel: 031 556 9437 KA1 1DP
Tuesdays 1-4pm Tel: 0563 41769
Thursday 6.30-9.30pm Mon-Thurs 11am-4pm
Thursday 7-9pm
Glasgow Friday 11am-1pm
PO Box 53 @BAREF[^1Black & Asian Refuges^0]
Glasgow Central
G2 17R PO Box 48
Tel: 041 221 8448 Stirling
Wednesday 7-10pm Tel: 0786 71771 Monday 7-9pm
BAREF Black & Asian Women's Refuges:
There are now also special refuges for Black and Asian women, who may not only
suffer from abuse but from difficulty in communicating their problems and from
@race[^1racism^0].
Shakti Womens Aid Gryffe Womens Aid
(Black Women) Room 8
12 PIcardy Place Old Community Centre
Edinburgh The Cross
EH1 3JY Kilmalcolm
Tel: 031 557 4010 Tel: 0505 872529
You may also wish to ring the Scottish Child Law Centre or Childline for
advice, their numbers are:
^1@childlaw[!1. ^0^bScottish Child Law Centre^b]: Free Advice on 0800 317 500
^1@ccl[!2. ^0^bChildline^b]: Free help/advice on 0800 1111
abuse Saying "No" to Bullying & Abuse
Everyone has the right to be safe and feel safe. If other people threaten you,
or want to do things to you that you don't want them to do, you have the right
to say "no", and to @talkto[^1seek help^0] if you're not listened to. ^6Being bullied or
abused is not just part of growing up, and you don't have to put up with it^0.
Bullying, physical abuse and @AbSex[^1sexual abuse^0] are all abuses of power. This is
when someone threatens you, hurts you, or persuades you to do something you
don't want to do, and because of who they are, it is difficult to stop them
and they know that. This makes it very difficult to tell anyone about what's
going on.
^1@Absex[!1. ^0^bSexual Abuse^b]
^1@Talkto[!2. ^0^bFinding someone to talk to^b]
^1@CCL[!3. ^0^bChildline^b]
^1@Childlaw[!4. ^0^bThe Child Law Centre^b]
Absex Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse takes place when anyone involves a child under the age of consent
in ^6any activity^0 which is intended to lead to sexual arousal or gratification
(regardless of whether they do it on purpose or through neglect).
Sexual abuse is a crime, and in recent years there has been a big increase in
the number of cases reported. Studies suggest that sexual abuse is not rare.
^bOne man in ten is believed to be sexually abusing children in his care, mostly
girls, although a significant number of boys are now known to be abused too.
It is also believed that as many as one out of four women were sexually
molested as children and teenagers^b.
Sexual abuse may include activities such as rape, sodomy, or sexual
intercourse with children, homosexual practices with children, indecent
exposure or assault, taking indecent photographs of children, encouraging
children to become prostitutes or watch sexual intercourse.
Sexual intercourse can be carried out by a complete stranger or by someone you
know. It can also take place between children and young people.
Talkto Find Someone to Talk To
Those who've been abused, often find it hard to talk to anyone about it,
because more often than not, the abuser is not a stranger but someone you know
and you trusted, or who has authority over you, such as fathers, relatives
(whether 'natural' adopted or step), family friends, youth leaders, teachers
or lodgers etc. ^bNo one deserves to be physically or sexually abused under any
circumstances^b, and yet you may be afraid that if you tell someone about what
is hapenning to you, they may not understand or believe you.
If you don't feel happy about anything that's happening, you may want to talk
to someone you trust about it, or to 'phone @CCL[^1ChildLine^0] about it.
^bDon't forget, whoever is involved, you have the right to say no, even if it
hurts their feelings, causes embarrassment or gets someone into trouble^b. If
you can't stop them talk to someone you know about it, or contact Childline,
@rcc[^1Rape Crisis^0], the Social Work Department or the police (who now have specially
trained officers to deal with abuse). The Social Work Department and police
have a legal duty to help children and young people who have been abused in
any way, and together will take whatever action is necessary to protect you or
any other children who are at risk of abuse.
Press enter to continue.....
You may find it easier to talk to someone like a teacher, a youth leader,
nurse or doctor first, and they will help you decide what to do, and whether
to contact the Social Work Department. All of these workers are committed to
working together to help abused children and young people.
Another source of advice for young women who have been sexually assaulted,
raped or abused are the network of Rape Crisis Centres which give help advice
and information to girls who are being sexually molested, and to women who
have had such experiences in the past. There are self-help groups throughout
Scotland where young women can meet with other women who have had similar
experiences. All the @upa[^1Scottish Rape Crisis Centres^0] are listed in the section
called "Violence Against Women".
CCL Childline
You can ring (or write to), the Childline service at any time, free of charge
for confidential help and advice. ^bYou may also want to ring if you have been
abused and are worried about feelings you have, or things you want to do with
other children^b. All help is Strictly Confidential - you will not be asked for
your name. The counsellors at Childline will listen to your problem and help
you sort things out. As ChildLine is free, calls you make to them will not
show up on the phone bill, so you needn't worry about anyone finding out that
you've called. ^6The number, (from anywhere in Britain) is: Tel: 0800 1111^0
Childline also has a special number for young people who are in care, which
you can also phone FREE on 0800 884444.
If you want to write to Childline (you don't need a stamp), the address is:
Childline FREEPOST 1111 Glasgow G1 4BR
When Childline write back, it will be in an ordinary handwritten envelope, so
nobody will know the letter is from Childline. If you're worried about your
letters being opened, make sure you give Childline a safe address.
ChildLaw The Scottish Child Law Centre
You can phone the ^2Scottish Child Law Centre^0 for advice about your legal
rights. If they can't help you themselves, they will be able to put you in
contact with a solicitor or another organisation who can help you.
The Scottish Child Law Centre
Lion Chambers
170 Hope Street
Glasgow.
Open: Tue-Fri 10am-4pm
Telephone: 041 333 9305
Freephone Advice line: 0800 317 500
fam Family Breakup - Some Information.
In Scotland, as many as one marriage in every four may end in divorce or
separation. As half these marriages involve children under 16, this section
has been included to try to help you understand what happens if your parents
decide to split up. If your parents split up, it may come as a surprise to
you, but if things have not been very happy at home you may also feel a sense
of relief.
This is not unusual, ^6just remember, whatever the situation, you should never
feel guilty, because you are never to blame if your parents split up^0. Both you
and your parents will probably feel quite confused about your feelings, but
while you may feel trapped in the middle and wish that your parents would get
back together again, there isn't likely to be much you can do to change the
situation.
You may feel left out or ignored, but remember that family breakup isn't
something unusual, so you shouldn't feel embarassed to talk about it. Try to
talk to your friends about how you feel, as they can often be a great help and
some of them are bound to have suffered the same sort of experience as you.
@md[^1Making Decisions^0] @BCH[^1Being Consulted about what happens^0]
MD Making Decisions
Once your parents have decided to split up, they'll have to make lots of
decisions. These will be about things like where each of your parents are
going to live, who you'll live with, how often you'll see your other parent
and whether you'll stay at the same school etc. They will also have to split
their money, which may mean that there is a lot less to go around. These
decisions are hard to make and your parents probably won't agree. You probably
won't like the decisions they make, but try to remember that it's a difficult
time for everybody, and no one will be very happy about having to live through
such an upsetting time. At the end of the day, however, it's probably better
for your parents to try to get everything sorted out rather than staying
together if they're not happy.
You may have been living with just one parent, if they become involved in a
new relationship, you may find it difficult to get on with their new partner.
Try to talk to them, to friends, or to other people you trust about your
feelings.
^6If you feel left out, it's important to tell your parents how you feel, and
ask them what's happening.^0
BCH Being Consulted about what happens
The older you are the more right you have to be consulted
about where you'll live, how often you'll see your other
parent - and for how long, and where you'll go to school
etc.
^6For further advice contact:^0
^1@Childlaw[!1. ^0^bScottish Child Law Centre^b]
^1@fms[!3. ^0^bFamily Mediation Scotland^b]
^1@Step[!3. ^0^bStepfamilies in Scotland^b]
^1@ccl[!4. ^0^bChildline^b]
step Stepfamilies in Scotland
Stepfamilies in Scotland
10 Abbotsford Crescent
Edinburgh
EH10 5DY
Tel: 031 452 9439
FmS Family Mediation & Conciliation Services
Familiy Mediation Scotland Tel: 031 220 1610
127 Rose Street South Lane
Edinburgh EH2 4BB
Local Family Conciliation Services
Local Branches at: Borders Tel: 0573 420722
Central Tel: 0786 472984
Dumfries Tel: 0387 63185
Fife Tel: 0592 751095
Aberdeen Tel: 0224 630050
Moray Tel: 0343 540801
Highland Tel: 0463 712100
Lothian Tel: 031 226 4507
Shetland Tel: 0595 3679
Glasgow Tel: 041 332 2731
Ayrshire Tel: 0563 72429
Tayside Tel: 0382 201343
Western Isles Tel: 0851 870 497
POLIS You & the Police
You can be stopped by the police at any time if they want help with their
enquiries, and you can of course offer to help voluntarily. If you don't, ^bthe
police can demand to know your name and address, but they should only do this
if they suspect that you have witnessed or committed a crime^b. They must tell
you what they suspect you of having seen or done, but they don't have to
answer any of your other questions. If you are under 16 tell the police your
age as well as your name and address as you have different rights.
^1@Sear[!1. ^0Search]
^1@Stat[!2. ^0Going to The Station]
^1@happen[!3. ^0What might Happen]
^1@Detain[!3. ^0Detention]
^1@Charge[!4. ^0Being Charged]
^1@arrest[!5. ^0Arrest]
^1@contact[!6. ^0Contacting Someone]
^1@duty[!7. ^0The Duty Solicitor]
^1@Appco[!8. ^0Appearing in Court]
^1@poladv[!9. ^0Further sources of advice]
Sear The Police Search Powers
The police can search you if they have reason to believe
you are carrying an offensive weapon or any of the
following:
drugs,
firearms,
stolen goods,
birds eggs, or
anything connected with terrorism,
^6You should only be searched by someone of your own sex^0.
Stat Going to the Station
If the police want you to remain with them, or go with them to the station,
they may ask you to go of your own free will, (instead of being arrested or
detained). ^6If you decide to do this you should be quite free to make phone
calls or leave the station any time^0. They may ask you to sign a voluntary
certificate (as evidence that you went of your own free will), ^bBUT, going of
your own free will may in fact mean that you are kept much longer, as you
could be detained for a further six hours as soon as you ask to leave.^b
ASK WHETHER YOU'RE BEING ARRESTED OR DETAINED. If not, you should be free to
go. Don't just assume you're being arrested or detained because a policeman
says something like "come with me".
YOU'RE ONLY UNDER ARREST OR DETAINED IF THE POLICE SAY SO, OR IF THEY
PHYSICALLY STOP YOU FROM LEAVING.
Note: If you know the police are looking for you then its probably best if you
get a lawyer to go with you to the police station, or to make an arrangement
for you to go at a particular time.
Happen What Might Happen to You
You may be SEARCHED, PHOTOGRAPHED or FINGERPRINTED, but ^bif you're not charged,
or you are proved innocent, any prints or photo's should be destroyed^b.
^bYou should not be subjected to any other physical examination required, or to
give a blood sample or even a handwriting sample which might be used as
evidence against you, unless the police have a warrant^b.
If you are unwell or are injured ask to see a doctor straight away, and ask
for a solicitor.
^6Remember: you dont have to say anything to the police except to give them your
name and address (it may be better to wait until you've seen a solicitor if
you're not sure, nor do you have to sign anything you don't understand or
agree with^0.
Whether you're arrested or detained, try to remember what is said and write it
down as soon as possible after your release.
If you have not been arrested you don't have to take part in an identification
parade. Once you've been arrested you cannot refuse, BUT ASK FOR YOUR LAWYER
TO BE PRESENT.
Contact Contacting Someone Else
If you have been detained or arrested, you have the right to have a message
sent to:
A SOLICITOR - you can ask for any solicitor of your choice to be contacted,
but under the @legaid[^1Legal Aid^0] rules only the @duty[^1duty solicitor^0] will be paid to
represent you until your first court appearance.
ONE OTHER NAMED PERSON:
a) If you are over 16 it can be a parent, friend or youthworker etc. The
Police can only refuse this if they suspect that the person you want
contacted may have been involved in committing the crime with you.
b) If you are under 16 THE POLICE MUST INFORM YOUR PARENTS STRAIGHT WAY.
You shouldn't be interviewed until they, or another adult of the same sex gets
there.
duty The Duty Solicitor
The Duty Solicitor is a solicitor who has put their name
on a rota and is willing to do extra work by being called
out to see people who are arrested or detained.
However, the duty solicitor may be someone who is not
used to working in the criminal court, so if you are not
happy with the advice you are given, you should insist on
pleading NOT GUILTY.
After the first court appearance you may want to see
another solicitor, (but you wont get help with paying for
another solicitor quickly, as they'll need to apply for
@Legaid[^1Legal Aid^0] within 14 days.
Detain Detention
There are a number of laws which give the police the right to detain suspects.
These include the drugs and terrorism laws but may also include local bye-laws
as well. Usually, people are detained under the Criminal Justice (Scotland)
Act, which gives the police the power to detain you for up to 6 hours, ^6but
only if they suspect you have committed, or were about to commit an offence,
punishable by imprisonment^0. The police must tell you why you're being
detained, and they must keep a record of when you were detained and what
happened. You have the right to told when the 6 hours are up.
^6NOTE: You can't be detained for the same thing again.^0
Arrest Arrest
The police do not always need a warrant to arrest you. If
you are arrested you must be told WHY you are being
arrested, and you should be cautioned - warned that
anything you say can be taken down and used in evidence.
^2THIS INCLUDES WHAT YOU SAY ON THE WAY TO THE STATION^0.
When they arrest you the police can remove all your
possessions and they will ask you to sign for them. Check
the list, and sign under the last item so that nothing
can be added.
Charge Being Charged & Bailed
Once you have been charged, the police can release you and a summons may later
be served on you, they can release you on 'police bail', or keep you in
custody. If they keep you in custody you must be brought to court within 24
hours (48 at weekends or on holidays). If the police release you on bail you
will have to sign a bail form, on which you promise to appear in court on a
certain date. You ^6MUST^0 appear at that time or warrant will be issued for your
arrest, and this could lead to a fine, or imprisonment, or both.
Once you have been charged ask to see the senior police officer about getting
bail. Most people are given bail automatically, but if you are already on
bail, community service, probation, or have a deferred sentence or a long
record you are unlikely to be given bail by the police.
If the police don't give you bail, your solicitor will have to request bail in
court. ^6If you don't have anywhere to stay, ask to see the bail information
officer (if there is one in your area), in the police station before being
taken to court in the morning, as you won't get bail unless you have an
address^0. If there are any conditions imposed your bail (such as staying at a
particular address or reporting to the police) you will receive a written
statement CHECK IT to make sure details like the address are correct, because
if they're not you could have problems later.
Appco Appearing in Court
Whether you are detained in custody, or released on bail, you are
automatically entitled to the services of the @duty[^1duty solicitor^0] when you first
appear in court, but the solicitor of your choice will normally agree to
represent you. If you are released on bail your trial could take some months,
but if you are held in custody it must be within 40 days (in the District or
Sheriff court where the Sheriff sits alone), or 110 days (in more serious
cases where the Sheriff sits with a jury.
Comp Complaints Against the Police
If you have a complaint, put it in writing, KEEP A COPY, and send it to the
Chief Constable for your area, at police headquarters.
Complaints about the police are very serious, and could cause you more trouble
than they're worth unless you've got a very good case.
BUT DONT BE PUT OFF IF YOU'VE GOT GOOD CAUSE FOR COMPLAINT. If you're thinking
of complaining here are some points to remember:
1) GET LEGAL ADVICE.
2) Be sure you've got some photos taken if you were injured, and make very
sure of your facts.
3) Don't complain unless you mean to go through with it, or you may end up
charged with wasting police time.
Poladv Advice about the Police
For Advice Contact: @childlaw[^1The Scottish Child Law Centre^0]
There's a useful leaflet you can get (there's a different one for over/under
16's) called: "Your Rights if Stopped, Detained or Arrested by the Police"
You can get it from either:
Castlemilk Law Centre (041 634 0313) or
Scottish Council for Civil Liberties (041 332 5960)
@uadd[^1Check Address Section for full addresses ->^0]
LEGAID The Legal Aid Scheme
Legal Aid covers the cost of employing a lawyer. There are different sorts of
Legal Aid, according to what sort of case you're involved in, and what sort of
court you'll be appearing in, but the solicitor will know what to apply for.
The two sorts that will affect most young people are Legal Advice & Assistance
(you might use this to get advice from a lawyer before going to a Children's
Hearing), and Criminal Legal Aid (if you have to appear in court).
Solicitors who offer help through the Legal Aid scheme will have a sign which
looks something like this in their window (well, actually it will look better
than this - because this programme won't draw round heads)!
╔═══╗ ╔═══╗
║ ║ ║ ║
╚═══╝ ╚═══╝
╔═════╗ ╔═════╗ ^1@AA[!1^0. ^bLegal Advice & Assistance^b]
║ ║ ║ ║ ^1@CrimLA[!2^0. ^bCriminal Legal Aid^b]
║ ║
║ ═══════╦═══════ ║
╚═════╗ ║ ╔══════╝
╔═════ ║ ║ ║ ═════╗
║ ║ ║ ║ ║
AA ^6Legal Advice and Assistance^0
This covers nearly every form of Legal Advice and may
cover representation in the criminal court under the new
ABWOR scheme, (Advice By Way Of Representation). Civil
Legal Advice and Assistance is not available for any
court appearance.
If you are on Income Support or your income is low, Legal
Aid is FREE. See a lawyer with the Legal Aid sign in the
window, or contact an advice centre for addresses.
CrimLA ^6Criminal Legal Aid^0
This covers criminal court cases, if you were in custody
the duty solicitor will be paid to represent you at your
first court appearance, (but if you have a solicitor
he/she may also agree to represent you). After your first
appearance you will need to apply for Legal Aid, which,
if it's granted will be free.
^1@cust[!A^0. If you are in custody]
^1@ncust[!B^0. If you're not in custody]
cust If you are in custody .....
If you are in custody, you automatically get free Legal Aid up to, and at,
your first court appearance, from the duty solicitor. In practice, if you
would prefer another solicitor to represent you, they will normally do so
without charging you, but check first. After your first appearance in court
what happens depends on whether you plead guilty, and which sort of court your
case is going to be heard in.
^6Sheriff & District Court^0 - If you plead not guilty, your solicitor will apply
for Legal Aid from the Legal Aid Board.
^6Jury cases^0 - Your solicitor will apply for Legal Aid from the court.
In both cases you may have to convince the Legal Aid Board that it would be in
the 'interests of justice', (you've got a good case) but your solicitor will
do this for you. If you're refused you can appeal or you can represent
yourself. You can still apply for Legal Advice and Assistance but the lawyer
won't be paid to represent you in court (a solicitor who regularly appears in
the criminal court will normally continue to represent you.
For further advice, contact: The @childlaw[^1Scottish Child Law Centre^0]
ncust If you not are in custody .....
If you are not in custody, you may be able to get @AA[^1Legal Advice and Assistance^0]
to help you decide what to do such as whether to plead guilty or not. If you
plead not guilty, you may get Legal Aid. There are different ways of applying
depending on what sort of case it is (but your solicitor will make the
application for you).
Sheriff & District Court - If you plead not guilty, your solicitor will apply
for Legal Aid from the Legal Aid Board.
Jury cases - Your solicitor will apply for Legal Aid from the court.
In both cases you may have to convince the Legal Aid Board that it would be in
the 'interests of justice', (you've got a good case) but your solicitor will
do this for you. If you're refused you can appeal or you can represent
yourself. You can still apply for Legal Advice and Assistance but the lawyer
won't be paid to represent you in court (a solicitor who regularly appears in
the criminal court will normally continue to represent you).
For further advice, contact: The @childlaw[^1Scottish Child Law Centre^0]
COURT The Courts
Young people under 16 are only brought to court in very serious cases,
(murder, serious assault, rape, crimes involving a weapon, those in which the
young person might be banned from driving, and if they are charged with
committing a crime with an adult).
Young people over 16, charged with an offence, may be dealt with by the court
unless they have already been put on a supervision order by a Children's
panel. In this case they are sent back to a Hearing first, for the advice of
the panel.
In Scotland, it is the PROCURATOR FISCAL who decides which court your case
will be tried in, you cannot demand a trial by jury.
^1@DC[!1^0. The Different Courts]
^1@sent[!2^0. Sentencing]
^1@Fines[!3^0. Fines]
^1@Solicitors[!4^0. Solicitors]
DC The Different Courts
^6District Court^0
Cases are heard by a Justice (no jury). This court normally hears breach of
the peace cases, thefts (to the value of £500), minor assault etc. In this
court the Justice judges the facts, but they get advice on the law.
^6Sheriff Court^0
Most common cases are heard by the Sheriff alone, who judges both the facts
and the law. In more serious cases the Sheriff sits with a jury of 15, here
the Sheriff decides on the law and the jury judge the facts.
^6High Court^0
The most serious cases are heard in the High Court, murder, rape, assault and
treason etc. They are always heard by a Judge and 15 jurors. In the high court
you have to be represented by both a solicitor and an advocate
Sent Sentencing
The Courts have wide discretionary power regarding sentencing. Their options
are as follows:
^b^6■^0^b Absolute discharge
^b^6■^0^b Admonition (a telling off).
^b^6■^0^b Sentence deferral.
^b^6■^0^b Community service. @senexp[^1Sentences Explained^0]
^b^6■^0^b Probation.
^b^6■^0^b A fine or compensation order.
^b^6■^0^b A prison or detention sentence.
Which sentence the courts choose, depends on a number of things such as the
type of offence committed, and whether the person has any previous
convictions.
In most cases a social worker would have to write a report called a "social
enquiry report".
Fines Fines
The court won't always impose a fine, but if they do, they will normally allow
time to pay (by instalments) BUT THEY HAVE TO BE ASKED, (those on benefit can
ask to pay fortnightly). It's important that you only offer what you can
really afford as you'll be in worse trouble if you don't pay. The court will
usually only refuse this if you have no fixed address.
People who are imprisoned while they still have unpaid fines, can contact a
solicitor who can arrange to have the fine converted into a prison sentence,
which will be served at the same time as the new sentence. If the court
imposed a fine or a number of days in prison (which it will usually only do if
you are over 21), you can be arrested for failing to pay only one instalment
of your fine.
If no alternative prison sentence has been imposed by the court, and someone
gets behind with paying the instalments of the fine, they will be called to
attend a ^6Means Enquiry Court^0 where they will have to explain why they are
behind. If their situation has changed they may be able to arrange to pay less
each time. It's usually best to contact the Clerk of the Court or your
solicitor as soon as payments get behind, as this way problems can be sorted
out before the person gets arrested.
Solicitors Solicitors
Remember, not all solicitors work in the criminal courts
regularly. Anyone who is not happy with the advice they
are given should go to another solicitor.
NO ONE SHOULD EVER PLEAD GUILTY UNLESS THEY'RE ABSOLUTELY
SURE THAT IT'S THE RIGHT THING TO DO. IF IN ANY DOUBT,
ALWAYS PLEAD NOT GUILTY, the plea can always be changed
later.
ALWAYS REMEMBER: A solicitor can only advise you, it's up
to you whether you take that advice.
SenExp Setences further Explained.........
^6Imprisonment:^0 Those aged 16-21 who commit offences for which an adult would be
sent to prison, will be sent to a YOUNG OFFENDERS INSTITUTION (YOI). If the
sentence is a long one they will be transferred to prison before their 23rd
birthday.
^6Alternatives to Custody:^0 The court doesn't always impose a prison sentence,
but can place offenders on probation or sentence them to community service.
^6Community Service Orders (CSO):^0 In most parts of Scotland offenders can be
sentenced to up to 240 hours of community service, (unpaid work under
supervision). This sentence can only be imposed if the convicted person agrees
to it, and the hours, (which must be worked outside their normal work or
educational time) must be completed in a year. The court can cancel the
community service order at any time if they're not satisfied with your work
and can then fine you or impose a custodial sentence.
^6Appeals:^0 There are usually strict time limits, so GET ADVICE QUICKLY.
SEX All You Ever Wanted to Know about Sex!
Sooner or later most people meet someone they're attracted to and would like
to have sex with! ^6This is great but there are some things its best to know
first^0, particularly in these days of @aids[^1HIV/AIDS^0].
If you want to have sex, respect your partner, get condoms and use them. ^6Don't
forget, it's better to get embarassed than to get infected^0! If a man and woman
have sex without using some form of contraceptive, they risk infection, and
it's very likely that the woman will become pregnant. You may know someone
who's been stupid enough to take a chance once or even twice and got away with
it, but that's just good luck and won't last long. Getting (someone) pregnant
is more trouble than getting a contraceptive.
^bREMEMBER: There's more to making love than a quick ten minutes behind the
bicycle shed! You certainly won't enjoy it if youre only doing it because
someone says "everyone else does it" or, "you would if you really cared". You
must both want to make love.^b
╔════════════╦══════════════════╦═════════════════╦════════════════════╗
║ @slaw[^1The Law^0] ║ @sour[^1Sources of Help^0] ║ @plan[^1Family Planning^0] ║ @adopt[^1Adoption/Abortion^0] ║
╠════════════╬══════════════════╬═════════════════╬════════════════════╣
║ @myth[^1The Myths^0] ║ @scont[^1Contraceptives^0] ║ @preg[^1Pregnancy^0] ║ @sdis[^1Sexual Diseases^0] ║
╚════════════╩══════════════════╩═════════════════╩════════════════════╝
Myth The Myths about getting Pregnant
There are still lots of old wives tales around, about ways to avoid getting
pregnant, these include:
^6^B■^0^b Urinating after intercourse.
^6^B■^0^b Holding your breath or coughing when the man comes.
^6^B■^0^b Douching after intercourse (which can be dangerous).
^6^B■^0^b Having sex standing up.
NONE OF THEM ARE TRUE - YOU CAN STILL GET PREGNANT.
You can ALSO get pregnant EVEN if:
^6^B■^0^b The woman does not have an orgasm.
^6^B■^0^b You are breast feeding.
^6^B■^0^b It is your first time.
^6^B■^0^b You are having a period.
slaw The Laws controlling when & who you can have sex with ...
^6It is against the law for a man to have sex with a girl under 16, (even if she
gives her consent)^0. Despite this, some girls an their boyfriends choose to
have sex. It is perfectly legal (as well as sensible) for them to use
contraceptives. ^6In Scotland there is no law which prevents a girl from getting
contraceptive help to protect her from the dangers of an unwanted pregnancy,
as she can consent to such medical treatment as soon as she is old enough to
understand the implications (at 16, everyone gets the right to consent to
medical treatment).^0
Although some doctors won't give contraceptives to girls under 16, it will
usually be possible for you to get contraceptive help and advice as most
doctors would prefer you to be safe if they think you are likely to have sex
anyway. The doctor will encourage you to talk to your parents, or may even ask
you for your permission to tell your parents,
BUT NO DOCTOR SHOULD TELL YOUR PARENTS WITHOUT YOUR PERMISSION.
Sour Pregnancy & Contraception - Sources of Help
The Brook Advisory Centre in Edinburgh caters especially for young people, and
girls and their partners can arrange to visit for help and advice on any
subject related to sexuality. Contact:
The Brook Advisory Centre: 50 Gilmore Place (Clinic)
Edinburgh EH3 9NY Tel: 031 229 3596
Other Addresses:
Scottish Council for Single Parents Family Care
44 Albany Street, Edinburgh. 21 Castle Street, Edinburgh.
Tel: 031 556 3888. Tel: 031 225 6441
Lifeline Pregnancy Care
9 Albany Street, Edinburgh.
Tel: 031 557 2060 (other branches in Aberdeen and Inverness, see phone book).
Or, contact your nearest Social Work Department
Leaflets are available from both the Brook and from Family Planning Clinics on
all aspects of sex and contraception.
scont Contraceptives
The table below gives a ROUGH guide to how reliable the various methods of
contraception are. ^6For every 100 couples using^0:
^1@pill[!1^0. The pill] approx 1 had a baby
^1@coil[!2^0. The coil] approx 2 had babies
^1@condom[!3^0. Condoms (male & female)] approx 3 had babies using the male condom
^1@cap[!4^0. The Cap & Cream] approx 4 had babies
^1@foam[!5^0. Cream, Foam,or pessary] approx 13 had babies
^1@With[!6^0. Withdrawal] approx 17 had babies
^1@Rhythm[!7^0. Rhythm method] approx 34 had babies
NOTHING AT ALL approx 75 had babies
Contraception after sex - If you have had sex and used no contraception, or
think that your contraceptive has failed and you do not wish to become
pregnant, it is possible to prevent it. You can do this by taking the "Morning
After Pill" that you can get from your doctor or a clinic. It must be taken
within 72 hours of 'unprotected sex'. Another possibility if you are too late
for this, is that you can have a coil fitted up to 5 days after unprotected
sex and still avoid pregnancy. If your doctor is unfamiliar with these
methods, contact a clinic.
^6IF YOU HAVE UNPROTECTED SEX YOU RISK INFECTION.^0
condom The Condom
The Male Condom or Sheath (DUREX or MATES also known as
"rubbers"). Now come in a range of fun colours and
flavours and can be bought from chemists, slot machines,
or obtained free from Family Planning Clinics. You have
to be careful to use them properly, together with a
contraceptive cream, foams or jelly, but even alone they
are fairly safe, and better than an unwanted pregnancy or
risk of infection.
Female condoms were introduced in 1992. They are coated
with a spermicidal lubricant, and are designed to be
inserted in the vagina just before sex (^bthis isn't as
easy as it might be, so it's best to practice alone
first^b)! They are not as widely available as male condoms
yet, and are more expensive, but should be available from
Family Planning Clinics soon.
Creams, Foams, Jellies or Pessaries - These are not very
reliable on their own, but make other methods like the
condom much safer.
foam Creams, Foams & Jellies
Creams, Foams, Jellies or Pessaries - These are not very
reliable on their own, but make other methods like the
condom much safer.
Pill The Pill
The Pill - This is the most effective and easiest to use
method of contraception. However, it is not suitable for
all women, and although there are many types, there can
be side effects. So it's important to get the doctor to
examine you as fully as possible before prescribing the
pill and to go back again straight away if you have any
worrying side effects. Also remember to tell your doctor
that you are on the pill before they prescribe any other
medicine.
Coil The Coil
The Coil (I.U.D.) - This is usually only prescribed for
women who have already had a pregnancy. It is a small
metal or plastic vice which is fitted into the womb by a
doctor. Once fitted it can't be felt, but it must be
checked regularly.
Cap The Cap
The Cap (DIAPHRAGM) - This is made of soft rubber and is
inserted by the woman herself before sex. Every woman has
to have her cap fitted by a doctor to ensure that it is
the correct size. The cap is only reliable when it is
used with one of the contraceptive creams, foams or
jellies.
Creams, Foams, Jellies or Pessaries - These are not very
reliable on their own, but make other methods like the
condom much safer.
Rhythm The Rhythm Method
Rhythm Method - This involves not having sex on those
days in the month when a woman is fertile. A woman can
tell if she is fertile by taking daily temperature
readings.
THIS IS NOT A RELIABLE METHOD OF CONTRACEPTION.
with Withdrawal
Withdrawal - This is the name for the method when the man
removes his penis before ejaculating (coming).
^6This is NOT AT ALL RELIABLE AS A METHOD OF CONTRACEPTION.^0
plan Family Planning Clinics
Contraceptive help and advice is also available from
'Family Planning' clinics - to find the nearest one look
in the phone book under Family Planning Service. If there
is not a special clinic, there may be a family planning
session run once or twice a week at your local health
centre or at your local hospital.
Some of these clinics may run special sessions for young
people - ring first and ask. (Their attitudes to young
people may vary, so if there's more than one clinic in
your area your friends might be able to advise you about
which one to go to).
preg Pregnancy
If you think you're pregnant, you'll need to talk to somebody as soon as
possible, ^bSO FIND OUT QUICKLY.^b
If you don't want to continue the pregnancy and would like to ask for an
abortion, you will need to get help as quickly as possible. If you are under
16, the doctor will only accept your concent to medical treatment if they
think that you really understand the issues involved. For further advice
contact the @sour[^1Brook Advisory Centre^0], in Edinburgh.
^6Pregnancy Testing Kits^0
Many chemists advertise pregnancy testing kits which you can use at home, but,
THEY ARE NOT VERY RELIABLE. Even if the result is negative, you may still be
pregnant, (your period must be at least 14 days late before a pregnancy test
will give an accurate result).
It's best to go to the Brook, a doctor or a Family Planning Clinic and check.
A clinic test can also give an accurate result when your period is 7 or more
days late.
adopt Keeping Your Child / Adoption or Abortion
^6An unmarried woman has legal custody of her child^0, although other people may
try to persuade her to have the child adopted or placed in care.
If you decide on an ^6abortion^0 you should have it done as soon as possible, it
is safer before the 12th week, (this is counted from the date of conception,
which is reckoned to be the date of your last period). Some doctors won't do
an abortion after the 12 week (there is certainly very little chance of
getting an abortion after the 20th week). If you want an abortion you must be
ferred by a Family Planning Clinic (such as the @sour[^1Brook Advisory Centre^0]), or
your G.P. (for an abortion on the NHS). You can go straight to the British
Pregnancy Advisory service at: 245 North Street Glasgow Tel: 041 204 1832 who
run private, non-profit making clinics.
Doctors attitudes to performing abortions vary so you may have to 'shop
around'. It is also very helpful to discuss your decision with someone
independent, outside your family and your doctor.
Note: If you have had an abortion and you want someone to talk to about how
you feel, many of the groups mentioned, such as th Brook or Lifeline, do post-
abortion counselling.
sdis Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Also known as V.D. (Venereal Diseases). Most can be treated easily, but if
they're not, can cause serious and sometimes permanent damage. So, if you feel
any discomfort in your sexual organs, especially pains when urinating, sores
or any irritation, or get any unusual discharge from your sexual organs GO TO
THE SPECIAL TREATMENT CLINIC AT YOUR LOCAL HOSPITAL AT ONCE
Look it up in the phone book (under sexually transmitted diseases), or ring
directory enquiries, the clinic has often got a separate number.
TREATMENT IS STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL.
See Also section on @aids[^1HIV/AIDS^0] for further information.
AIDS AIDS
There have been lots of confusing stories about the risk og getting AIDS
(Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome), which is caused by a virus known as HIV
(Human Immuno-Deficiency Virus).
Fear about the consequences of AIDS has become so great that often the real
facts get forgotton.
^1@facts[!1. ^0^bThe Facts^b]
^1@risk[!2. ^0^bWho's at Risk^b]
^1@psafe[!3. ^0^bPlaying Safe^b]
^1@Aidgay[!4. ^0^bAIDS & Gays^b]
^1@aidsadv[!5. ^0^bGetting Advice^b]
^1@gaycoun[!6 ^0^bLesbian & Gay Switchboards for Advice^b]
facts The Facts about AIDS
The virus destroys some of the white blood cells which make up the bodies
immune system, so that those who have the virus become vulnerable to illnesses
which they would normally be able to resist. Most people who have the virus,
remain healthy for a long time, but eventually they are likely to become
seriously ill with AIDS related illnesses. They are likely to die from one of
these illnesses which their bodies can no longer resist.
The virus is transmitted in bodily fluids such as blood or semen, usually
during sexual contact, but it can also be passed in other ways such as between
drug users who share dirty needles.
risk Who's at Risk of AIDS
The AIDS virus does not affect any particular group of people, but those who
practice 'risky behaviours' such as injecting drugs, and those having
unprotected (especially anal), sex are more likely to get the virus passed to
them, as it is passed from one person to another in bodily fluids such as
blood, semen and vaginal fluid.
The activities which are most risky are:
■ sharing dirty needles to inject drugs;
■ taking part in higher risk sexual practices such as oral or anal sex
without condoms or dental dams;
■ or having unprotected casual sex with anyone.
Everyone needs to know the facts, and be careful, even if they don't do any of
these tyhings themself. Remember, the disease is now also affecting
heterosexuals (4 out of 5 of those with HIV aged 15-19 are female
heterosexuals).
psafe Playing Safe
If you want to avoid infection during sex always use a
condom with a lubricant such as a water-based jelly like
KY (which won't rot the rubber). Everyone has to think
very carefully before having casual sex, as you can't be
sure whether your partner has slept with anyone else who
may have been infected.
^6PLay safe and protect yourself - Use a condom.^0
YOU CANNOT CATCH AIDS FROM:
^6■^0 Sharing cups ^6■^0 Hugging or kissing
^6■^0 Toilet seats ^6■^0 Swimming baths
^6■^0 Towels
^6MASTURBATION IS QUITE SAFE.^0
aidgay AIDS & Gay Men
Gay men too, should be especially careful about their
partners, and should avoid any activities which risk
tearing the skin - such a anal sex. If these can't be
avoided YOU SHOULD ALWAYS WEAR A CONDOM, & USE A
LUBRICANT.
Lesbians should contact @aidsadv[^1SAM^0] for advice about safe sex.
aidsadv For ^6Free^0 Advice on AIDS in Scotland:
English on: 0800 567 123 - 24 hours per day
Bengali, Hindi, Gujarati, Punjabi & Urdu on:
0800 282 445 - Wed 6pm - 10pm
Cantonese on: 0800 282 446 - Tue 6pm - 10pm
Arabic on: 0800 282 447 - Wed 6pm - 10pm
In Scotland: SAM Scottish AIDS Monitor or SOLAS
PO Box 48 Edinburgh 2-4 Abbeymount Edinburgh
Tel: 031 557 3885 Tel: 031 661 0982
Cafe/Info/Therapies - Open Daily
Or any sexually transmitted disease clinic
The Brook has a leaflet called "Love Carefully", on protection against AIDS.
Get a copy by sending 18p and a self-addressed envelope to:
Brook Advisory Centres Education and Publications Unit
153 East Street, London SE17 2SD
Both the Brook Centre and your local Family Planning Clinic will issue free
condoms and will give advice about AIDS.
GAYS Gay & Lesbian Rights
About one in ten of the population are gay men or women. Despite these large
numbers, sex between gay men is illegal unless both have reached the age of 21
and they are "in private". In practice, the number of prosecutions is not
high, but homosexual men and women suffer more from discrimination and
persecution than from the law. It appears to be legal for women to have
lesbian relationships, as there is no specific reference in the law to lesbian
sexual relationships, although they too may be charged with indecency for
showing affection in public.
The Stonewall youth project in Edinburgh provides a safe and supportive
environment for lesbian & gay teenagers. The project meets on Friday evenings
in the city centre. For more information contact them on: 031 556 4040 or
write to Stonewall Po Box 169 Edinburgh.
Outright Scotland runs a lesbian, gay & bi-sexual community centre at 58a
Broughton Street in Edinburgh, which holds meetings throughout the week. There
is a cafe in the upper part of the premises. The group also publish a magazine
called Gay Scotland. For further information contact Helen Chambers or John
Wilkes.
@gaycoun[^1Information & Counselling Lines^0]
gaycoun Information & Counselling Lines
Information & Counselling Lines offer free confidential advice on all aspects
of sexuality.
Edinburgh Gay Switchboard: 031 556 4049 - Nightly from 7.30-10pm.
Lesbian line: 031 557 0751 - Monday & Thursdays from 7.30-10pm.
Bi-sexual line: 031 557 3620 - Thjursdays 7.30-9.30pm
Strathclyde Gay Switchboard: 041 221 8372 - Nightly 7-10pm
Lesbian Line: 041 552 5768 - Wednesdays 7-10pm
Aberdeen 0224 586869 - Wednesday 7-10 pm
Ayr 0292 287227 - Wednesday 7-10.30pm
Borders 0450 370700 - Mon/Wed/Fri 7.30-10pm
Central 0786 71285 - Monday 7.30-10pm
Fife 0592 266688 - Women - Monday 7.30-10.30pm
- Men - Friday 7.30-10.30pm
Perth 0738 828840 - Women - Monday 7-10pm
- Men - Monday 7-10pm
London: Lesbian and Gay Switchboard runs a 24 hour service on 071 837 7234.
HOUS Housing
In Scotland, you can leave home at 16, with or without your parents consent.
BUT, finding somewhere to live, getting it furnished and getting it paid for
can be very difficult. This is especially true since the government abolished
the grants which used to be available to help with things like buying
furniture. These are now only paid as @sf[^1loans^0], (although there are some grants
available for those leaving care, etc). So ^2think carefully before you leave
home. In 1992 there were reckoned to be about 156,000 homeless young people in
Britain, who were either having to sleep rough on the street or move about
from friend to friend, sleeping on the floor. Some young people have even
had to resort to begging or prostitution in order to survive.^0
^1@costs[!1. ^0^bThe Cost of Living Independently^b]
^1@Priv[!2. ^0^bPrivate Rented Housing^b]
^1@Sec[!3. ^0^bSecurity of Tenure^b]
^1@Coun[!4. ^0^bCouncil Housing & Hostels^b]
^1@RR[!5. ^0^bHelp with Rent - Housing Benefit^b]
^1@CT[!6. ^0^bThe Council Tax^b]
^1@Hmles[!7. ^0^bHomelessness^b]
^1@Cities[!8. ^0^bMoving to a City^b]
Costs The Costs of Living Independently
Living on your own is very expensive as you have to pay for the rent & council
tax (if you're liable), gas, electric, food and laundry (and have money left
over for clothes and spending money). Even in a furnished flat you'll have to
provide your own sheets, towels and quite a lot of other furnishings. As the
Government think everyone under 25 should still be living at home with their
parents, people under 25 are paid a lower rate of benefit. Cuts in benefit
rates and the withdrawl of grants for deposits and furniture etc, have
therefore meant that it is now extremely difficult to afford to leave home and
live independently.
Priv Private rented flats and bedsits
It's now very difficult to find a flat or a bedsit that you'll want to live
in. In many, where the rooms are shared, there isn't much protection against
@evic[^1eviction^0], and often such buildings have @oqes[^1locked letter boxes^0] so that the
landlord can collect and cash your giro and give you back the change.
Even this sort of accommodation has been more difficult to get and keep
because:
a) You cannot get @deps[^1deposits^0] or rent in advance.
b) District Councils are often no longer able to meet the full cost of your
rent. This is because of rules which govern how much Housing Benefit they
can pay for particular sorts of rooms and flats.
c) Most long stay @BL[^1Bed & Breafast^0] has disappeared. If you are able to find a
place you'll probably have no cooking facilities, and, as eating out is
much more expensive you may not be able to make ends meet.
@PT[^1Private Tenants Rights^0].
Deps Deposits
Despite the fact that help with deposits is no longer available through the
benefit system, you may still asked to pay a deposit to cover your landlord in
case of damage, loss, or in case you leave without paying your bills. Before
paying a deposit MAKE SURE YOU GET AN INVENTORY (a list of everything that's
supposed to be there), and CHECK IT, so that you can't be accused of pinching
or breaking anything that was never there. Make sure you get a receipt for the
rent you pay too, so you have proof of the amount you have paid. This is
important. Because many people have difficulty getting their money back, and
then have difficulty moving to another place.
Remember: Always get a rent book or receipts for your rent and any deposit you
pay, so you can't be accused of rent arrears.
Sec Security of Tenure
This means that you can't be thrown out unless the Landlord takes you to
court, and he'll have to have a good reason for wanting you out. You will
probably have security of tenure unless
a) your landlord lives in the house (but he or she will still have to go to
court to get you out)
b) you share a room
c) your landlord charges you for any food or services
If your landlord tells you to leave GET ADVICE
REMEMBER - ALWAYS GET A RENT BOOK OR RECEIPTS FOR YOUR RENT AND ANY DEPOSIT
YOU PAY, SO YOU CANT BE ACCUSED OF RENT ARREARS.
Coun Council Housing & Hostels, etc
Most councils have now converted some of their houses into shared housing or
single rooms which are suitable for young people. Since the Benefits Agency
stopped giving help with furniture, more councils now offer furnished
tenancies. Councils are obliged to let you put your name on the waiting list
for housing as soon as you're 16, but unless you're homeless you'll only get a
tenancy once you've got enough priority. This is worked out by looking at
things like how long you've lived in the area, whether your present
accommodation is overcrowded, and whether you have any health problems etc.
Many authorities use a points system, and the law says the council must inform
you about how many points you need, and how many you have.
RR Help with Paying Your Rent - Housing Benefit
Help with housing costs is the responsibility of the District Council. Ask for
the Housing Benefit Section and you should always get through.
Those on Income Support are paid their full rent, (unless their rent is
restricted by the rent stop because the rent is too expensive or the
accommodation too large etc). Housing Benefit is not be paid automatically, so
you must remember to return your claim form, to the Benefits Agency so that
they can tell the District Council that you are on Income Support. If you
don't get Income Support you will get help with all or part of the rent,
depending on whether you have any income. Those in council accommodation are
charged a reduced rent or no rent at all. Others will be sent a giro cheque.
Rebates are paid fortnightly or monthly, unless you ask to be paid weekly. You
will be told in writing about how much you will be paid. You have a right to
ask for a more detailed explanation or a review if you're not happy with what
you get. If you have @ND[^1someone living with you^0] you may have to charge them rent.
Housing benefit for 16/17 yr olds living independently is based on the over 18
year old benefit rate. This means that those on YT will not have to pay so
much towards their rent.
Joint tenancies - You will only get a rebate on YOUR SHARE of the housing
costs.
ND Charges for Non Dependants
The term used to cover people who stay with someone who gets Housing Benefit
to help with their housing costs is non-dependants. The person on Housing
Benefit will have their benefit REDUCED, if someone is staying with them, and
will have to charge the person who stays with them rent. This will also apply
to you if you stay with your parents.
BL Board and Breakfast
Claimants in bed & breakfast accommodation have their rent paid by the
District Council through the Housing Benefit system (excluding charges for
meals & fuel). Although the amount paid may be resricted if the Rent Officer
thinks the rent is too high. They will also receive normal income support from
the Benefits Agency, to cover food and their other living expenses.
CT The Council Tax
The Poll Tax which was introduced in 1989 was replaced by a new tax called the
Council Tax in April 1993. The new tax consists of two elements. Half is based
on the capital value of the property (there are eight value bands). The other
half is a personal tax.
The tax is charged against properties, but some properties, such as those
which are ONLY occupied by students are exempt. Only people over 18 are
liable, and some people may be eligible for a discount. The first level of at
25% covers people living in properties which are only occupied by one person
or where all but one are disregarded. Those disregarded include students
(including student nurses and YT trainees), prisoners, those in care or in
hospital, those who are severely mentally impaired and school leavers. The 50%
discount applies if ALL of the residents are disregarded, or if the property
is empty. ^6Note: students should be careful, if a non-student moves into their
property they will immediately become liable for 75% of the tax (because the
property is now classed as being occupied by one one person who can only claim
a 25% discount)^0. Those living in rented shared accommodation will probably
have to pay their share of the council tax along with their rent. The rules
are extremely complex, so the best thing to do is to get advice. Those who are
liable may also be entitled to a @CTR[^1rebate^0].
CTR Council Tax Rebates
Under the old Poll Tax system everyone had to pay at least 20% of their Poll
Tax. Under the new Council Tax those on benefit or low incomes, will be able
to claim up to 100% of the tax. However, the method of working out rebates for
those who have to paybecause they have an income above the level of their
assumed needs (which are based on income support levels), are not as generous,
so more people will get less.
EVIC Eviction
How easily you can be evicted from your accommodation depends on what sort of
tenancy you have. Council house tenants all have security of tenure which
means that the council would always have to go to court in order to evict
them. The council would first have to send you a 'notice' which will give you
the reasons why they intend going to court to 'recover possession'. This
notice which is only valid for 6 months is followed by a summons which gives
14 days notice of when the court hearing will be. The court will order an
eviction (where reasonable) for:
■ Rent arrears - If you've not kept to an agreement to pay.
■ Using the house for immoral purposes.
■ Causing damage to the property.
■ Causing a nuisance.
If you are told that you are to be evicted - DON'T LEAVE - get advice.
@Priv[^1Private Tenancies^0] @PT[^1Private Tenants Rights^0]
PT Private tenants
Changes in the laws governing private sector housing rights have left some
people protected by the old rules and others on a new system in which people
have lost some of their rights. Most young people now have tenancies governed
by the less favourable new rules.
Tenancies are now either 'assured' or 'short assured' tenancies, and most
tenants now have less rights. The landlords of assured tenants will still have
to go to court before evicting their tenants. In some cases the court would
automatically give them permission to evict, but in others the court would
only give permission if they think that it is reasonable. For example - if you
made an arrangement to pay extra towards rent arrears the court would not
normally give permission to evict you (but if you agree to pay more than you
can afford it will look worse if you don't keep up with your payments).
Tenants have also lost the right to have fair rent set by the rent officer,
who now looks at 'market' rents. Short assured tenancies are for at least 6
months. If the landlord wants the tenancy to end after 6 months they would
have to give you a proper 'notice to quit' before the 6 months are up.
Otherwise the tenancy would continue for another 6 months.
If you have any problems - get advice. @oqes[^1Landlords Duties etc^0]
Oqes Other questions for Tenants & Landlords
^bLandlords duties^b
When you rent a room or flat you enter into a contract with the landlord
(regardless of whether you have it writing). In law, the landlord has duties
such as keeping the property in good repair. There are also rules governing
how much can be charged in gas and electric meters etc, but you'll find it
very hard to get anything done about these things withou help, so GET ADVICE.
^bLocked letter boxes^b
It is an offence for anyone but you to open your mail. If you live somewhere
where the mail gets opened and you get handed the change from your giro you
can report it to the police or the Benefits Agency, as this is illegal.
HMLES Homelessness
In some cases the council may have a duty to house you, but only if you have
been thrown out, NOT if you decided to leave home of your own accord. EVEN
THEN, they only have a duty to house those who are classed as being in
PRIORITY NEED, this includes tho who are pregnant or have children, the
chronically sick or disabled, and those who may otherwise be at risk of
financial or sexual exploitation, (this usually means young people). There is
usually very little help for single males. Some councils have agreed to treat
other situations as priority need too, so check. You should, however, contact
the Homeless Section of the councils Housing Department, and if you're refused
help, GET ADVICE.
^bWhat can you claim?^b
If you are homeless the Benefits Agency will pay you the normal age related
rate (those aged 16/17 get the over 18 rate), but you will not get any
additions for children or any premiums, and the Benefits Agency may want to
make you sign on daily.
The law also allows the Benefits Agency to pay you in any manner they see fit,
e.g. by voucher or directly to the lodgings. But, the personal allowance must
always be paid directly to the claimant.
Cities Moving to a City
Often young people who are unhappy at home think that moving to a big city
will be exciting, and will help them find a job and new friends.
THINK FIRST - Unless you have friends or relatives to stay with, YOU WILL NEED
A LOT OF MONEY. Many landlords will expect as much as 2 months rent as a
deposit (which is no longer available even as a loan from the Benefits
Agency), and as much again as rent in advance. The gas and electric companies
may also want a large deposit before making any connection because they are so
used to people leaving without paying their bills. On top of things like rent,
gas and electric, you'll have to pay for food, laundry, necessities (soap &
shampoo etc.), clothes, fares and entertainments. Try to work out how much
you'd need each week before you leave home.
The Benefits Agency may not pay you without some means of identification such
as a birth certificate.
You may also have to try very hard to get a job (people queue all night
outside the West End Job Centre for casual labour). For most jobs you will
need good written references.
^b^6THINK FIRST^b^0 @uadd[^1Useful addresses^0]
RACE Racial Discrimination
Racial discrimination has been illegal since the Race Relations Act of 1976.
The Act covers any discrimination which happens in relation to jobs, training,
housing, education or services (from councils, pubs, clubs, disco's and so
on). It makes it illegal to discriminate against anyone because of race,
colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin. The Act also makes it illegal
for anyone to be victimised because they have brought a complaint under the
Act.
^1@DDis[!1^0. ^bDirect & indirect discrimination^b]
^1@BOOK[!2^0. ^bThe CRE / Radio One Book "Race in the 90's"^b]
^1@act[!3^0. ^bTaking Action^b]
^1@raceoth[!4^0. ^bOther Forms of Discrimination^b]
^1@CRE[!5^0. ^bThe Commision for Racial Equality^b]
^1@blkadd[!6^0. ^bUsefull Addresses^b]
DDis Direct & indirect discrimination
The law recognises two sorts of discrimination.
^2Direct^0 discrimination, is where one person clearly treats another person, or
group of persons less favourably on racial grounds.
^2Indirect discrimination^0 is where the discrimination is less obvious, but
usually affects a whole group. In fact, it affects far more blacks. An example
might ber an employer who would not allow women to wear trousers - this would
mean that some Asian women whose religion requires them to keep their legs
covered, would not be able to get jobs. This sort of discrimination also
happens because no one makes sure it won't. So at school, Black, Asian and
Chinese children may have to work much harder to succeed because they come
from a different cultural background where they may not speak English at home
etc. Things that may on the face of it seem equal, will leave them at a
disadvantage.
book The CRE & Radio One booklet
The Commission for Racial Equality and Radio One recently published a booklet
about what life is like in Britain for people from minority ethnic groups who
make up 1 in every 20 of Britains population. The booklet starts by telling us
that over half of these people were born in Britain, and nearly three quarters
are British Citizens.
The booklet contains some worrying facts about racial discrimination in
Britain today. Whilst many white people still don't think that discrimination
is a real problem in Britain, in reality, West Indians, Pakistanis, and
Bangladeshis are nearly ^6seven times^0 more likely to suffer problems like living
in overcrowded housing. People from minority ethnic groups are also more
likely to be asked to show their passport before being able to make claims for
benefit etc.
The only way for people from minority ethnic groups to tackle rascism and
discrimination is by refusing to accept it, by challenging it both
individually and together with others. Suppoort each other- don't let anyone
tell you that you can't or shouldn't try to do what you really want to do. It
may not be easy but keep trying for what you want.
ACT Taking Action about Racism
If you feel you've been discriminated against you will need to go to a Racial
Equality Coucil or Community Relations Council, an advice centre, or lawyer
for advice about how to take action. Although not all cases have to be taken
to court, you will need a lot of help as the law is very complicated.
^bDiscrimination at work^b
If you want to complain about discrimination at work or during selection for a
job or training place, you will need to go to an industrial tribunal. Although
this is meant to be an informal process, it is in fact very complex, and you
won't get Legal Aid to pay for a lawyer to help you (although the employers
side are bound to have a lawyer). So you'll need to get advice quickly from an
advice centre, a Racial Equality Council or from the Commission for Racial
Equality. You can get an industrial tribunal form from any of these places or
from a job centre (you must complain within three months).
You could also contact:
The Race Relations Employment Advisory Service
2nd Floor, Washington House, New Bailey Street.
Manchester M3 5ER Tel: 061 837 7114
raceoth Other Forms of Discrimination
^bIncitement to Racial Hatred^b
It is also an offence, under the Race Relations Act for anyone to publish or
distribute written matter, or use in any public place or at a public meeting,
language which is:
a) threatening, abusive or insulting; and
b) likely in the circumstances to stir up hatred against any
racial group in Great Britain.
For complaints about other forms of discrimination apply to the Sheriff Court
for a summons and send details of your complaint to:
Commision for Racial Equality
100 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH2 3AA
Tel: 031 226 5186
^2Get Advice from your local Racial Equality Council, Commission for Racial
Equality, CAB, advice centre or a solicitor, before reporting your complaint
to the police or taking further action, (you could be eligible for help under
the Legal Aid scheme).^0
CRE The Commision for Racial Equality
You can use the Commision for Racial Equality in Edinburgh, or any Racial
Equality, or Community Relations Council as an initial source of advice and
information. They will also offer support to individuals with complaints
relating to discrimination and harassment at work or in training etc. They
will also have information on a wide range of local services and activities
such as translating services.
For further information get a copy of the booklet "Race in the 90's" which was
produced for the CRE and Radio 1. You can get a copy from the CRE in Edinburgh
blkadd useful Addresses
Commission for Racial Equality UK Immigrants Advisory Service
100 Princes Street 115 Wellington Street (2nd Floor)
Edinburgh Glasgow
Tel: 031 226 5186 Tel: 041 248 2956
Racial Equality Councils aim to challenge racial discrimination and make equal
opportunities a reality - get involved, and help to make it work.
Lothian Racial Equality Council Strathclyde Community Relations Council
12a Forth Street 115 Wellington Street
Edinburgh EH1 3LH Glasgow
Tel. 031 556 0441 Tel. 041 227 3764
Tayside Community Relations Council Central Scotland Racial Equality Council
20 Paterson Street Cape Unicentre, Kerse Road
Dundee Stirling
Tel: 0382 818806 Tel: 0786 450025
Grampian Racial Equality COuncil OSPREY (Deals with Overseas Students)
9a Little Belmont Street Old Broughton Primary School
Aberdeen Broughton Road, Edinburgh
Tel: 0224 625895 Tel: 031 447
more More useful Addresses
Roundabout International Centre
4b Gayfield Place
Edinburgh EH7
Tel: 031 556 1168
Ethnic Minorities Law Centre
41 St Vincent Place
Glasgow
Tel: 041 204 2888
(Primarily for the people of Glasgow)
Race Relations Employment Advisory Service
2nd Floor
Washington House
New Bailey Street
Manchester
M3 5ER
Tel: 061 837 7114
Drink Drink Drugs & Sniffing Things (Full Details on Facts Page)
There are a wide range of drugs which people use for pleasure. Some are legal
like tobacco and alcohol (although this doesn't mean that they're not
harmful). Some are illegal, like ecstasy, cannabis and cocaine. Despite all
the horror stories in the papers about 'hard' drug use, the amount of damage
caused by illegal drugs is relatively small in comparison to the problems
caused by legal drugs like tobacco and alcohol. There are risks attached to
using any drug. Despite the risks, an increasing number of people still want
to experiment. This may be partly due to the fact that at times of poverty and
unemployment, the escape offered by drug taking becomes more attractive.
Most people who use drugs are introduced to drug taking by their friends.
Don't be talked into taking or doing something because someone says "everyone
else does", especially if you're not sure what the effects may be. It's
important to check out the facts for yourself, and make your own decision.
@fct[^1Full Facts Menu - Click Here for FULL Details^0]
It's always possible to find someone who's taken something and not suffered
any bad effects, or become addicted, (probably about as many as there are
people who can give up smoking whenever they want, or have unprotected sex
without the girl getting pregnant). It's like a game of Russian roulette!
fct The Facts about taking Drugs
Anything you take, whether you drink, sniff, smoke or even inject it, has an
effect on your body. Exactly how it affects you depends on things like your
age, sex, weight and the mood you were in when you took it, how you took it,
what it was mixed with and what you took it with. Using more than one drug at
once (for example glue and alcohol), changes the effect drastically, and can
be very dangerous. Mixing drink with anything is risky.
Here are some of the important terms that are used to describe the effects of
drugs:
^1@od[!H. ^0^bOther Drugs in Detail^b]
^1@add[!A. ^0^bAddiction^b] ^1@amp[!I. ^0^bAmphetamines & Ecstasy^b]
^1@inj[!B. ^0^bInjecting^b] ^1@lsd[!J. ^0^bLSD - Acid^b]
^1@drk[!C. ^0^bTobacco & Alcohol^b] ^1@tra[!K. ^0^bTranquilisers^b]
^1@snf[!D. ^0^bSniffing^b] ^1@her[!L. ^0^bHeroin^b]
^1@drpo[!E. ^0^bDrugs & the Police^b] ^1@coc[!M. ^0^bCocaine^b]
^1@dhelp[!F. ^0^bGetting Help^b] ^1@dbar[!N. ^0^bBarbiturates^b]
^1@osa[!G. ^0^bHelp & Support Agencies^b] ^1@can[!O. ^0^bCannabis^b]
^1@mag[!P. ^0^bMagic Mushrooms^b]
^1@dpre[!Q. ^0^bPrescribed Drugs^b]
Add Addiction
This is when someone can't feel 'normal' unless they take a particular drug
all the time. When they dont take the drug they get ^6Withdrawal Symptoms^0. This
These are the pains and sickness someone feels when they can't get the drug
they're addicted to. It's different for each drug but it can mean either
physical or psychological effects, such as having really bad headaches, being
sick all the time, getting uncontrollable shakes, imagining you can see
horrible things that arent really there, (hallucinations), or even death.
Finally, the amount of a drug that's too large to be taken safely (which is
different for each person because everyone's body is different), is called an
overdose.
Inj Injecting
Using needles to inject drugs significantly increases the risk, especially if
people share needles or re-use old needles. One of the main risks from
injecting is the risk of catching HIV from using dirty needles ('works'), but
there are also other infections which users might catch. It is for this reason
that needle exchanges have been set up in many areas to ensure that at least
drug users are protected from these risks. Another very dangerous practice is
melting down and injecting prescribed drugs that come as gel in capsules such
as Temazepam. This is particularly dangerous as the gel ususally solidifies
again, and may block your veins or arteries. This has resulted in people
having to have their limbs amputated.
DRK Tobacco & Alcohol
^bTobacco^b
Over 100,000 people die each year in the UK from tobacco related diseases, and
Scotland has the highest rate of heart disease and lung cancer in the world.
Smoking is therefore more of a problem than any other drugs because about a
third of teenagers (more girls than boys), smoke. Babies born to mothers who
smoke are likely to weigh less, and are therefore more at risk of ill health.
^bAlcohol^b
Many young people think that drink is only a problem for older people. This is
not true. Most drinkers are in fact young men between 18 and 24. Many young
people find themselves in trouble, having accidents or losing friends just
because they drink too much, or too often. Damaging your body with alcohol may
take some time, but drinking large amounts regularly (4 to 5 pints a day or
more), will end up doing just that. Dont forget, a pint of beer is as strong
as a double whisky. The maximum safe drinking level is reckoned to be 21 units
of alcohol for men, and 14 for women (one unit of alcohol is equal to half a
pint of beer, a glass of wine or a single measure of spirits).
SNF Sniffing
Although glue is the most common thing sniffed, almost anything that gives off
fumes has probably been sniffed by somebody, but, some things like aerosols
and gases are particularly dangerous. This is especially true if they are
sprayed into your mouth, which can numb the muscles in your throat/lungs and
make it impossible for you to breathe. It's also important to pick dangerous
places to sniff such as: roof tops, railway bridges, canal banks, balconies
etc, because obviously if you're buzzed you're more likely to trip and fall,
and you could drown or seriously injure yourself. Another big danger is what
you do while you're buzzed/high, because like drinking, it's not usually being
drunk that will kill you, it's doing things like driving whilst you're drunk.
This is particularly true with volatile substances or drugs that may make you
feel confident and powerful, you may try things that are impossible, rather
that dangerous, (like people on 'trips' who think that they can step out of
high windows). As well as this you may just do daft things which will get you
into bother with the police.
Ordinary glues are certainly a lot less dangerous than aerosols, cleaning
fluids, or petrol, but only as long as they're not mixed with other things
like alcohol. It's still possible to sniff too much, too quickly, and pass out
or choke, so its best never to be alone. Don't forget: If you're under 16,
sniffing glue or solvents is one of the reasons why you might be called to
attend a Children's Hearing System.
OD Other Drugs
There are a number of other drugs which get used, some have been obtained
legally from the doctor and then sold to other people (barbiturates &
amphetamines), but some are completely illegal and have either been stolen,
brought in from abroad, or made up from scratch.
With most drugs you develop a tolerance (you need more to get the same
effect), but some drugs are more addictive than others. Most people that start
to use drugs think that despite the stories they've heard about other people
getting addicted, that it won't happen to them , - ^6it usually does^0. Usually
people find they need regular 'fixes' very soon, or they start to get
withdrawal symptoms (pains, cramps, hallucinations).
Different drugs have different effects and different withdrawal symptoms, here
is a short list:
╔══════════════╦═══════════════╦═════════╦══════════════╦══════════════════╗
║ @amp[^1Amphetamines^0] ║ @lsd[^1LSD - Acid^0] ║ @her[^1Heroin^0] ║ @dbar[^1Barbiturates^0] ║ @mag[^1Magic Mushrooms^0] ║
║ (Ecstasy) ╠═══════════════╬═════════╬══════════════╬══════════════════╣
║ ║ @tra[^1Tranquilisers^0] ║ @coc[^1Cocaine^0] ║ @can[^1Cannabis^0] ║ @dpre[^1Prescribed Drugs^0] ║
╚══════════════╩═══════════════╩═════════╩══════════════╩══════════════════╝
Amp Amphetamines (Speed).
There are a number of different types, but they all have the effect of
speeding up all the body's reactions and making the user wide awake and very
confident. Users don't need sleep, and hardly any food. If they go on using,
they may start to get hallucinations (like waking dreams/nightmares), and to
think everyone is getting at them. If they try to stop, they get nervous and
depressed.
Ecstasy - E, Adam, XTC. Ecstasy is an amphetamine which was originally used as
a slimming drug. It therefore reduces the appetite of those using it. ^6It was
banned and been made a class A drug in the seventies (7 years in prison for
possession or life for dealing, plus unlimited fines)^0. It has a generally
relaxing effect on those who use it, but causes dehydration (so you'll need to
drink a lot). At higher doses it may produce hallucinations, and make users
feel anxious, confused, and have difficulty sleeping. It can also inhibit the
immune system making users more liable to infection, and may in some cases
affect blood clotting.
lsd LSD - Acid
Acid was first made in Switzerland in 1938, but it is very similar to
psychedelic drugs which have been used for 'tripping' for thousands of years.
One LSD trip can weigh as little as 25 micrograms (a postage stamp weighs
about 60,000 microgram), most come on small squares of paper and can weigh
between 25 and 400 micrograms, as measuring out such a small amount is not
easy (but these are safer than tablets or capsules which can contain other
things). A dose of about 75 micrograms will last about 8 hours with the user
becoming intensely aware of sounds and colours etc. Larger doses may make
users see things which don't exist (hallucinations), which can be very
frightening. When the drug wears off, users may feel depressed and anxious for
a couple of days.
Tra Tranquilisers
These include Valium & Librium etc.
They are addictive, and unlike @dbar[^1barbiturates^0] and @amp[^1amphetamines^0] you don't build
up a tolerance so you can overdose on the same amount, whether or not you are
addicted. People who take an overdose may go into a coma, so it's very
important to get them straight to hospital, and like barbiturates:
^bDON'T GIVE THEM COFFEE.^b
dbar Barbiturates
Barbiturates - Sleeping tablets - 'Downers'.
^6These are extremely addictive, and it's extremely easy to take an overdose
especially if mixed with alcohol or other drugs.^0 Barbiturates tend to dull the
senses (a bit like alcohol).
The effects are much stronger when they are mixed with alcohol, as both slow
your body down. ^6In some cases they may slow the heart and breathing down so
much that you could pass out, or your heart could stop^0. When people don't get
the drug they get anxious, shaky, may have fits or see horrible visions (like
the DT's alcoholics get).
^bIf you think someone has taken an overdose ^6don't give them coffee^0, it only
speeds up the effects, get them to hospital.^b
It is dangerous for addicts to stop using it (kick the habit) unless under a
doctor's care.
her Heroin - Junk - Smack
Heroin comes from the opium poppy, and it's extremely addictive. It's usually
a white powder and it's usually injected which means that users risk getting
infected from dirty needles.
Everything to do with drugs like heroin is dangerous. Firstly, those selling
it have usually added other things, (cut it), to make it go further. This
makes it more dangerous, and all the more likely that you'll take an overdose,
as you don't know how strong it is.
If an addict doesn't get a regular supply or tries to 'kick the habit', they
get terrible stomach cramps, constant sickness, diarrhoea etc. This is why
addicts usually have to go into hospital if they want to stop.
Its very easy to get addicted to heroin, and once addicted you need more and
more just to feel normal. Heroin is extremely expensive which is why most
addicts end up stealing, or selling heroin to other people at a profit to pay
for their own habit.
Coc Cocaine - Crack
Cocaine - Coke, Crack. Usually a white powder or granules (freebase), which
make the user feel alert and confident etc. The effect doesn't last long, and
it's extremely expensive.
Side effects can include loss of appetite, buzzing in the ears, cold like
symptoms, diarrhoea and exhaustion.
It's usually sniffed but the latest fashion is to smoke it (Crack).
Withdrawal symptoms include headaches depression and anxiety.
can Cannabis - Dope - Marijuana.
Cannabis comes from the leaves or the resin of the Cannabis plant.
It's usually smoked like a cigarette - called a joint, but it can also be
eaten. There is still widespread discussion about how addictive or harmful it
is, but at the present time it's illegal and there doesn't seem to be any
likelihood of it being made legal.
Cannabis produces relaxed effects sometimes coupled with hallucinations.
mag Magic Mushrooms
Magic Mushrooms contain a chemical which gives the user dreams or
hallucinations - a bit like glue.
They are very dependent on the mood that the user was in when they took the
mushrooms, (usually swallowed or taken in tea). It can be easy to take too
many and users often get flashbacks to previous bad experiences.
SOME MUSHROOMS ARE HIGHLY POISONOUS SO USERS MUST BE EXTREMELY CAREFUL.
Any drugs that have hallucinogenic effects like Cannabis, Solvents or
Mushrooms may make the user feel able to do things which are extremely
dangerous or impossible.
DRUGS SOLD ON THE STREET HAVE OFTEN HAD OTHER THINGS ADDED WHICH MAY BE
POISONOUS.
dpre Prescribed Drugs
As was stated above, it can be just as dangerous to misuse drugs that are
usually only available on prescription like those that come as a gel in
capsules. Another danger is that the drugs often contain a mixture of
substances, some of which, like paracetemol, can be extremely harmful if taken
in large doses.
Drpo Drugs and the Police
To possess barbiturates, amphetamines, or tranquillisers legally you require a
doctors prescription.
Possession of either these drugs without a prescription or cannabis, heroin,
cocaine etc, is an offence, however small the amount. If you say you didn't
know you had it, it will be up to you to prove that you're innocent.
It is also an offence to produce or supply any drug (this includes growing
your own cannabis).
It is also an offence to allow your premises to be used for the use of
cannabis or any other drug.
The police can stop and arrest or search anyone under the drug laws, or search
any vehicle. They can arrest anyone who they think may abscond (run off), or
anyone whose name and address they can't find out (or don't believe). They can
also @detain[^1detain^0] you for up to six hours.
Check the section on the @polis[^1police^0] @foot[^1Football & Rugby Matches^0]
foot Drinking and Football & Rugby Matches
It is now an offence at either football or rugby matches to:
1) Be drunk at the ground or have drink with you.
2) To try to get into the match drunk, or carrying drink, (you can be searched
for drink before the match).
3) To take a container into the ground that might injure someone if it was
thrown.
4) To be drunk or have drink on a coach or train going to the match.
Dhelp Getting Help
Whatever drug you use, there are a number of places that you can get help if
you want to, but you must decide first that you really want help.
If you are worried about your use of drink or drugs of any sort, you should be
able to go to a doctor without being worried about the police. The doctor is
duty bound to keep everything you tell him/her confidential. They will anyway
be more concerned with helping you than getting you into trouble.
Phonelines:
National FREEPHONE Drugs Helpline Tel: 0800 776600
Narcotics Anonymous Helpline Tel: 071 351 6794
Drugs & Alcohol Care Centre Kessock St Inverness Tel: 0463 220520
The Scottish Drugs Forum has a list of support agencies & needle exchanges:
Scottish Drugs Forum 40 Shandwick Place Edinburgh Tel: 031 220 2584
Scottish Drugs Forum 84 Commercial Street Dundee Tel: 0382 201016
Scottish Drugs Forum 5 Oswald Street Glasgow Tel: 041 221 1175
osa Other Support Agencies:
Falkirk Drugs Project Cameron House West Fife Support Group
3-5 Chapel Lane 1 Nithbank 92 Pittencrieff Street
Falkirk Dumfries Dunfermline
Tel: 0324 612627 Tel: 0387 41844 Tel: 0383 723613
Aberdeen Drugs Action Leith Drugs Project W Lothian Drug/Alc Project
8a Gaelic Lane 3 Smiths Place 99 Rowan Street
Aberdeen Edinburgh Blackburn
Tel: 0224 624555 Tel: 031 554 7516 Tel: 0506 634898
NEDAC, Unit 15 Bridges Project Calton Athletic Group
Muirhouse Centre 17 River Street 417 London Road
Edinburgh Ayr Glasgow
Tel: 031 332 2314 Tel: 0292 287777 Tel: 041 554 6819
Drop-in Centre Possil Drug Project Castlemilk Project
85 Bank Street 101 Denmark Street 9/11 Ballantay Quadrant
Alexandria Glasgow Glasgow
Tel: 0389 51343 Tel: 041 336 3365 Tel: 041 634 0771
@modr[^1More Help & Support Agencies^0]
modr More Help & Support Agencies
East End Initiative Drumchapel Addict Service
170 Stamford Street 234 Kinfauns Drive
Glasgow Glasgow
Tel: 041 556 7131 Tel: 041 944 4242
For leaflets & training materials etc.
Fast Forward Positive Lifestyles Release
24a Annandale Street 388 Old Street
Edinburgh London
Tel: 031 556 3009 Tel: 071 729 5255
LEIS Leisure & Recreation
There are many things which you may be able to get into either cheap or free of
charge, especially if you're unemployed and can how your UB40. ALWAYS ASK
BEFORE YOU PAY. These may include sports centres, swimming pools, golf,
tennis, bowls, putting, art galleries, muse s etc. There may also be cheaper
prices at quiet times of the day, as there are in many cinemas and theatres.
Again, ask before you pay the full price. One of the most valuable schemes for
those under 26 is run by the Scottish Community Education Council who publish
"Young Scot". The "Young Scot" card entitles holders to discount at a wide
range of shops, leisure facilities and on Citylink buses etc. It also gives
young people access to special services like free legal advice.
For more information contact:
Scottish Community Education Council (Young Scot)
90 Haymarket Terrace
Edinburgh
Tel: 031 313 2488 ^1@cheap[!1. ^0^bMore Cheap Deals^b]
^1@vol[!2. ^0^bVoluntary Work^b]
^1@Avol[!3. ^0^bVoluntary Work Abroad^b]
cheap More Cheap Leisure Deals
For more information about what's going on in your area try asking at the
following places:
■ Local Community Centres
■ District Council Recreation Department
■ Citizens Advice Bureau
■ The Local Library
LOOK UP THE ADDRESSES & PHONE NUMBERS IN THE PHONE BOOK.
Other ways to get things 'on the cheap' include: joining a club, going as a
group, (you'll often get cheap rates), or going to a day or evening class
where you'll get to use the equipment as well as getting tuition. Contact:
Scottish Sports Council 1 St Colme Street Edinburgh Tel: 031 225 8411
Scottish Arts Council 19 Charlotte Square Edinburgh Tel: 031 226 6051
These organisations have leaflets on a wide range of subjects which they will
send you if you phone or write to ask. For other national organisations which
may be able to send you information, look in the phone book under
SCOTTISH...... eg Scottish Youth Theatre, Scottish Canoe Association etc.
vol Voluntary Work
If you're over 16 and you want to leave home and go away to work, CSV
(Community Service Volunteers) will arrange a placement for you, doing
something like working in a hospital or kids home. You will live in, so your
board and lodgings will be free and you'll get about £20.00 per week pocket
money. There are special Social Security rules for those doing @workpt[^1voluntary Work^0].
Contact:
CSV 236 Clyde Street Glasgow Tel: 041 204 1681
CSV 14 Forth Street Edinburgh Tel: 031 557 4033
You can go for between 4 and 12 months and all your travelling costs will be
paid for you, (no qualifications are needed, and one is turned down).
For more ideas ask at your local volunteer exchange/bureau. Look up the number
in the phone book, or ring directory enquiries.
Avol Voluntary Work Abroad
If you're over 18, and you're interested in going abroad to do some voluntary
work, you should contact IVS (International Voluntary Service), who arrange
work camps through Europe (which use English as their common language), doing
a wide variety of things. Workcamps can last for up to 4 weeks.
Internation Voluntary Service
St Johns Church
Princes St
Edinburgh.
Tel: 031 229 7318
To get more info about work-camps and other sorts of voluntary work, contact
your local YES service or look in your local bookshop, where they usually
have books on summer holidays jobs abroad. There is also an Internation
directory of summer holiday jobs abroad, which you can get from:
Vacation Work
9 Park End Street
Oxford
OX1 1HJ
uadd Useful Addresses
The Scottish Child Law Centre ┌────────────────────────┐
Lion Chambers │ @ccl[^1Childline Scotland^0] │
170 Hope Street ├────────────────────────┤
Glasgow. │ Freephone 0800 1111 │
Open: Tue-Fri 10am-4pm │ │
Telephone: 041 333 9305 │ Young People in Care │
Freephone Advice line: 0800 317 500 │ Freephone 0800 884444 │
│ │
^2Useful Agency Addresses^0 │ Or Write to: │
═════════════════════════ │ │
^1@nadd[!1. ^0^bNational agencies^b] │ Childline │
^1@locad[!2. ^0^bLocal Advice Centres^b] │ Freepost 1111 │
^1@swh[!3. ^0^bSocial Work Emergency Numbers^b] │ Glasgow G1 4BR │
^1@disadd[!4. ^0^bDisability Addresses^b] └────────────────────────┘
^1@osa[!5. ^0^bDrug & Alcohol Support Agencies^b]
^1@upa[!6. ^0^bRape Crisis Centres^b]
^1@sam[!7. ^0^bThe Samaritans^b]
^1@blkadd[!8. ^0^bEthnic Minority Addresses^b]
^1@yis[!9. ^0^bYouth Information Services^b]
nadd National Agencies
Citizens Advice Scotland Brook Advisory Centre
26 George Square (Contraceptive/Pregnancy Advice)
EDinburgh 50 Gilmore Place
Tel: 031 667 0156 Edinburgh
(For address of nearest Bureaux) Tel: 031 229 3596
Scottish Low pay Unit Equal Opportunities Commission
Freepost 141 West Nile Street
Glasgow G3 7BR Glasgow
Tel: 041 221 4491 Tel: 041 332 8018
Scottish Civil Liberties Trust Scottish Trades Union Congress
146 Holland Street 16 Woodlands Terrace
Glasgow Glasgow
Tel: 041 332 5309 Tel: 041 332 4946
National Union of Students Castlemilk Law Centre
12 Dublin Street 32 Dougrie Drive
Edinburgh Glasgow
Tel: 031 556 6598 Tel: 041 634 0313
@mona[^1More addresses^0]
mona More Addresses
Legal Services Agency Scottish Consumer Council
(Like a Law Centre) 314 St Vincent Street
11th Floor, Fleming House Glasgow
134 Renfrew Street G3 8AX
Glasgow G3 6ST Tel: 041 226 5261
Tel: 041 353 3354
Health & Safety Executive Equal Opportunities Commision
314 St Vincent Street 141 West Nile Street
Glasgow G3 8AX Glasgow
Tel: 041 204 2646 Tel: 041 332 8018
Commission for Racial Equality
100 Princes Street
Edinburgh
Tel: 031 226 5186
^2Youth Access^0 - is an organisation which promotes youth counselling services.
They should be able to give you the numbver of a service near you. THeir
number is: 0533 558763
locad Local Advice Agencies
Grampian Welfare Rights Tayside Welfare Rights Central Region
47 Belmont Street Friarfield House Advice Services
Aberdeen Barrack Street, Dundee (For numbers)
Tel: 0224 648247 Tel: 0382 23281 X: 4252 Tel: 0786 451483
Lothian Advice Shop
85/87 South Bridge Phone these numbers for details of
Edinburgh local services.
Advice: 031 225 1255
In many areas (especially Strathclyde), there are also advice worker in
social work offices. If there isn't a centre listed, check the phone
book for details of your local CAB.
Falkirk Advice Centre Bowmar Community Project Welfare Rights Office
47 Glebe Street 9 Elm Grove 36/7 Whitesands
Falkirk Alloa Dumfries
Tel: 0324 28406 Tel: 0259 219449 Tel: 0387 56620
@load[^1More Local Addresses^0]
load More Local Addresses
GRAIN Info Centre Crossroads Inverurie Adv Centre
53-55 Gordon Street 80 Stirlingsfauld Place The Railway Station
Huntley Glasgow Inverurie
Tel: 0466 793676 Tel: 041 429 3254 Tel: 0467 24421
Rights Office Fife West Lothian Rights Ass Rights Office Fife
4 Abbey Park Place 2b Greendykes Road 11 Hanover Court
Dunfermline Broxburn Glenrothes
Tel: 0383 732320 Tel: 0506 853056 Tel: 0592 758969
(For other Centre Nos) (For other Centre Nos)
Rights Office Fife Skye & Lochalsh Centre Tannochside Centre
10 East Fergus Place Elgin Hostel 14 Thorniewood
Kirkaldy Dunvegan Rd, Portree Uddingston
Tel: 0592 205556 Tel: 0487 2032 Tel: 0698 816427
Community Info Centre Glasgow Black Advisory Centre
The Westburn Centre c/o Y.M.C.A.
175 Dalrymple Street 33 Petershill Drive
Greenock Glasgow
Tel: 0475 26522 Tel: 041 557 2355
sam The Samaritans
The Samaritans will advise on a range of problems, and will usually have
contact addresses for a range of other agencies.
Local Samaritans in:
Aberdeen: 0224 574488 Falkirk: 0324 22066
Borders: 0750 20000 Glasgow: 041 248 4488
Caithness: 0847 65656 Hamilton: 0698 429411
Dumfries: 0387 53555 Inverness: 0463 713456
Dundee: 0382 26666 Kilmarnock: 0563 31313
Dunfermline: 0383 722222 Kirkaldy: 0592 265444
Edinburgh: 031 225 3333 Perth: 0738 26666
Elgin: 0343 543000 Lerwick: 0595 4449
swh Social Work & Housing Emergency Numbers
Borders Tel: 0896 2659
Lothian Tel: 031 554 4301
Central Tel: 0786 7050
Dumfries Tel: 0387 63022
Fife: Tel: 0383 756700
Grampian: Tel: 0224 684795
Highland: Tel: 0463 870198
Islands: Tel: 0851 2222
Strathclyde: Tel: Freephone 8314
yis Youth Information Services
Airdrie YES Bellshill Youth Info Clydebank Youth Info
Chapelside Centre John Street 31-33 Queen Mary Ave
Waddell Street Bellshill Clydebank
Tel: 0236 762583 Tel: 0698 747725 Tel: 041 951 4085
Dannys Place Drop-in Drumchapel YES Dunoon & Cowal Youth Proj
Shankland Road 4 Essenside Ave Kirk Street
Greenock Drumchapel Dunoon
Tel: 0475 744145 Tel: 041 944 0695/6 Tel: 0369 4830
Greenock Cafe Centre Haldane Initiative Terminal One Youth Centre
Wellington Youth Wing The Smiddy Logan Street
Dempster Street 2A Manse Drive Blantyre
Greenock Haldane, Balloch G72 0NT
Tel: 0475 28288 Tel: 0389 55934 Tel: 0698 829455
Hamilton Info Project Kinning Park YES Youth Enquiry Service
41A Millgate Road Cornwall Street Adelphi Centre
Fairhill Glasgow 12 Commercial Road
Hamilton Tel: 041 427 4173 Glasgow
Tel: 0698 891687 @owstr[^1More Centres^0] Tel: 041 429 2114
owstr More Addresses outwith Strathclyde
Bridge of Don Youth Counselling Service
Bridge of Don Youth Community Education Centre
Braehead Way
Bridge of Don Cowdenbeath Youth Info Service
Aberdeen 170 High Street, Cowden
Tel: 0224 703118 Tel: 0383 514519
The Bridges Project Open Door Speakeasy
55 Albany Street 44 Adelaide Street
Edinburgh Livingston
Tel: 031 556 6978 Tel: 0800 220424
Perth YES Off the Record
10 St Johns Place 75A Murray PLace
Perth PH1 5 SZ Stirling, FK8 1YE
Tel: 0738 39909
Many of the agencies listed also publish leaflets & booklet. If you want
information of that sort, call, visit or write for more information.
! BASIC RIGHTS - FURTHER DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT THE TEXT
This programme is based on the booklet ^b^6Basic Rights for Young People
in Scotland^b^0 which is available in all ^bgood^b bookshops.
If shops seem confused tell them that they can order it from "Bookspeed" in
Edinburgh or quote the ISBN number which is 0 907560 13 X. The booklet costs
£2 from bookshops. You can also obtain it from: The Legal Services Agency in
Glasgow price £2.50 (incudes postage etc). Their address is:
Legal Services Agency
11th Floor, Fleming House
134 Renfrew Street
Glasgow G3 6ST
If you want more information or want to contact Bob Stead or David Palmer (who
wrote this hypertext programme), press ^b^1@?[F1]^b^0 where you'll find their addresses.
You can copy this programme freely to anyone who is interested, but stories,
comments, postcards from far flung parts of Scotland (Drumchapel??), sent to
Bob would help to make it all seem worthwhile.
Key ^1@*[F2]^0 ^bTo Return to Main Menu^b
? BASIC RIGHTS HELP
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║ Enter = View Selected Topic ║ Click on MORE = Next (If It Exists) ║
║ 1-9 or A-Z = Select Topic From Menu ╠══════════════════════════════════════╣
║ Backdel () = Previous Topic ║ Programme Written By: David Palmer ║
║ Enter = View Selected Topic ║ Ferret Infomation Systems Limited ║
║ ║ 22 Leith Walk, Edinburgh, EH6 5AA ║
║ F1 = Help Screen ╠══════════════════════════════════════╣
║ F2 = Return To Main Menu ║ Content Edited By: Bob Stead ║
║ F3 = Program Information ║ 2 Caledonian Place ║
║ F4 = Search For A Reference ║ Edinburgh EH11 2AS ║
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║ Ctrl Key & ║
║ F5 thru F8 = Insert Bookmark - You Can Return To At Any Time With F5 - F8 ║
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