Review the use of “risk of harm” decisions under the Children Act 1989

Background

Review how “risk of harm” is interpreted in decisions under the Children Act 1989. Introduce clearer national guidance and evidence standards to ensure decisions affecting families are transparent, consistent and based on reliable evidence not just speculation or what might happen.

Additional details

Families report that decisions in family courts can rely heavily on predictions of future risk rather than clear evidence of current harm. While safeguarding children must remain the priority, clearer national standards and transparency are needed to ensure assessments of future risk are consistent, evidence-based and fairly applied across local authorities and courts. Decisions should reflect current circumstances and positive change where it has been demonstrated.

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