Suffolk Local Offer

Your legal rights

Knowing you or your young person's legal rights as a person with additional needs can help you navigate finance, access to support, and more.

As per the Equality Act, everyone has the right to be treated fairly and for their voice to be heard. As your young person moves into adulthood, these principles should always be adhered to in regards to their wellbeing.

Depending on your young person's capabilities, you may have decision-making powers over some aspects of their life. This is called deputyship.

When choices are made about your young person's care, either by yourself, a deputy, or a medical professional, they should always adhere to the following principles:

  • Confidentiality. Your young person has a right to know how information about them might be shared. They also have a right to talk to someone in private.
  • Consent. No major decisions should be made on your young person's behalf without the express consent of them or a valid deputy.
  • Their needs. Your young person has a right to an interpreter, translator, or simply for information to be presented to them in a particular fashion where required.
  • Complaints. If you or your young person are unhappy with the help or care you have a right to make complaint to your local authority or relevant organization.

Other relevant legislation