Principle 1: Children's & Young People's Needs Come First

Introduction

The following is one of a group of principles which recognise the particular needs of tamariki and rangatahi receiving health and disability support services. The principles describe what should be provided when your child or young person receives those services.

The principles are based on expert opinion and a considerable body of literature in Aotearoa New Zealand and overseas and they have been developed after wide consultation.

See a listing of 14 principles guiding provision of health and disability services

Children and young people's needs come first

Principle: When tamariki and rangatahi receive health or disability services, their needs should be the primary concern of the health provider.

You can expect that when your child or young person receives health or disability services:

• their needs will be the primary concern of the health provider
• the health provider will discuss with you the best possible options for treatment or care
• the health provider will discuss with you implications of the treatment and how you can be involved
• the health provider will deliver the highest possible standard of care for your child or young person
• the health provider has a process to hear the voices of tamariki, rangatahi and parents

Each time you visit a health or disability service, the focus of the provider should be on the needs of your child or young person and you. These visits should be used to promote and advocate for your child's or young person's development and well-being.