Member

The family group decision-making process is rightly already child-centric, and the views, desires, needs and best interests of the child should be assessed throughout the process by professionals. On the point made by the noble Baroness, Lady Walmsley, about whether or not the word “should” is good enough in this context, I will just say that we agree that the child’s voice must be central to a family group decision-making process, which is exactly why, in subsection (9) of this clause, we have been clear that the local authority “must” seek the views of the child. I also agree with the noble and learned Baroness, Lady Butler-Sloss, that children should have their views taken and be included in decision-making—at any age, potentially. It is certainly important that we continue to centre that in the work that we are doing.