Why does the law need to change?
The defence of "reasonable punishment" in England and Northern Ireland leaves a grey area. The law isn't clear about what's "reasonable" punishment and what's abuse. It leaves it open to interpretation which leaves children at risk of harm and makes it more difficult for professionals to keep children safe.
The Governments in England and Northern Ireland must make it clear – children should not experience any form of physical punishment.
A change to the law would keep children safe. It would help make sure that parents and carers who want to protect their children from harm, keep them healthy, and give them a happy childhood, can be supported and find positive solutions. And when things do go wrong, they can help professionals to spot abuse and step in to protect children.
Physical punishment is harmful to children – its effects are felt long after the punishment has ended.
Decades of research has shown that physical punishment can impact a child’s physical, mental and emotional health. We know that physical punishment doesn't improve children’s behaviour – it can actually make behavioural problems worse.
Right now, children have less protection from physical harm than adults.
It’s unacceptable that children, the most vulnerable members of our society, are the least protected from physical harm. Children deserve the same protection from harm as adults. Every child deserves to grow up feeling safe.
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