453.This section inserts a new section 8A which defines, for the purposes of the Commissioner’s functions, specific groups of children and young people whom the Commissioner:
Should have particular regard to, when discharging the Commissioner’s primary function (as set out in section 2(4));
Should have particular regard to, when taking steps to involve children in the discharge of the Commissioner’s primary function (as set out in section 2B);
Can provide advice and assistance to (as set out in section 2D);
Should have particular regard to, when consulting on the Commissioner’s business plan (as set out in section 7B(5)).
454.The annual report must also set out how the Commissioner has had particular regard to this group, in exercising his or her functions.
455.The children defined by this section includes all those children and young people who previously fell under the remit of the Children’s Rights Director.