The UK Government has announced plans to repeal the presumption of parental involvement from the Children Act 1989,  a landmark reform aimed at strengthening child protection in family law.

New evidence shows that automatically prioritising contact with both parents can, in some cases, perpetuate abuse. The proposed change makes clear a child’s safety and wellbeing must always come first when courts decide on parental involvement.

This development follows years of campaigning by survivors and charities. One of those was Claire Throssell MBE, whose sons, Jack and Paul, were tragically killed by their abusive father. The announcement, made on the anniversary of their deaths, is an important step in safeguarding children. It also aims to rebuild trust in the family justice system.

The reform forms part of the Government’s Plan for Change, designed to improve outcomes for children and victims. It complements other measures such as the expansion of “Pathfinder” family courts and new restrictions on parental responsibility for those convicted of serious sexual offences or where a child is born of rape.

At Austen Jones Solicitors, our family law specialists provide compassionate, expert advice on child arrangements, divorce, and safeguarding matters.
If you need guidance on how these legal changes could affect your family, contact our team today.

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