Home-Start statement - 'Cinderella Law' proposed changes to the Children and Young Person's Act

“Home-Start welcomes this proposed change to the law. We hope it will further safeguard the wellbeing of children.

Given the widely recognised long-lasting and damaging emotional effects of neglect, that this is not recognised within criminal law means children are not adequately protected. This ‘Cinderella Law’ is a very positive change but will require thoughtful development and implementation. Identifying and responding to cases of emotional abuse can be challenging and we must expand our expertise around listening to very young children.

Tough decisions will need to be made about what action to take against parents, and what measures will ensure children have the best possible future. It is essential to protect children from harm, but the understanding that parenting can be difficult - especially in circumstances involving issues such as mental ill health, disability and poverty - must not be entirely forgotten. Home-Start is keen to draw on our many years of hands-on experience with families, to work with the government, local authorities and other organisations in developing and implementing any future legislation.

It is shocking that until now, the UK’s legal system has been one of the few in the developed world that doesn’t criminalise emotional abuse. We congratulate Action for Children on their campaign that has secured this key milestone, helping every child grow and reach their potential in loving environment.”