Children’s Rights Advice and Assistance Team

Our Children’s Rights Advice and Assistance Team helps children, young people, parents, carers, and professionals understand and stand up for children’s rights in Wales.

We provide free, independent, and confidential advice on issues affecting children’s welfare, wellbeing, and access to support.

If you’re worried that a child’s rights aren’t being respected — we’re here to help.

Who We Help

We offer advice and assistance to:

Children and young people under 18
Care leavers up to 21 (or 25 in some cases)
Parents and carers seeking support for their children
Professionals working with or on behalf of children

If you’re unsure whether we can help, contact us — if we can’t assist directly, we’ll point you to the right place.

What We Can Help With

We can support you with:

Education and school issues — such as exclusions, additional learning needs, or unfair treatment
Social services or care decisions — including complaints or appeals
Access to health or wellbeing support
Understanding children’s rights under Welsh law
Raising or escalating a complaint about a public service

Our role is to make sure children and young people in Wales know their rights — and that those rights are upheld by those who work with them.

How the Service Works

Get in touch with our team by phone or email
Talk through your concern with an experienced officer
Get advice and options about what to do next
We may also intervene or refer your case if it’s appropriate

All advice is confidential unless we believe someone is in immediate danger.

Contact the Team

Freephone: 0808 801 1000
Email: advice@childcomwales.org.uk
Opening hours: Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm

When you contact us, we’ll listen carefully, explain your rights, and help you decide on the best next step.

What We Can’t Do

We’re not a legal service and can’t:

Represent you in court or at tribunals
Give advice about ongoing legal cases
Replace the role of social services or advocacy teams

But we can help you understand your rights, navigate public systems, and find the right route to resolve your issue.

Our Legal Basis

Our work is part of the Children’s Commissioner for Wales’ statutory duties under the Care Standards Act 2000 and the Children’s Commissioner for Wales Regulations 2001.

We operate independently from government and public bodies to ensure children’s rights are upheld without conflict or bias.

Learn more about the Children’s Commissioner’s role

FAQs

Who can contact the team?
Anyone — children, young people, parents, carers, or professionals working with children in Wales.

Is the service confidential?
Yes. Everything you share is private unless we think someone’s safety is at risk.

Can I get help if I don’t live in Wales?
We may not be able to act directly, but we’ll guide you to the right support service in your area.

What happens after I contact you?
We’ll listen, explain your options, and, if appropriate, liaise with services on your behalf.

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