A Landmark Law Change for Child Safety – Protecting Children from Abusive Parents

Commentary by Frances Bedbrook-Kelly, Family Law Solicitor at Garden House Solicitors.

A Major Step Forward for Children’s Safety

At Garden House Solicitors, we welcome a significant development in UK family law aimed at protecting children from harm. The Labour Government, supported by Calder Valley MP Josh Fenton‑Glynn, has announced that abusive parents will no longer have automatic contact with their children when it is unsafe to do so.

This vital law reform represents a victory for the most vulnerable families in our society and marks a profound shift in hos the courts approach child contact and safeguarding.

Why this change in UK Family Law Matters

For too long, the presumption of parental contact, even where domestic abuse was proven, has left children and non-abusive parents trapped in cycles of fear.

As MP Josh Fenton-Glynn highlighted:

“There are at least 67 children who have died at the hands of parents known to be abusive… countless others have been forced into traumatic environments because the law did not offer sufficient protection.”

By removing the presumption of contact, the new law prioritises child safety over parental rights. It sends a clear message, the welfare of the child must always come first.

Key Aims of the Child Contact Law Reform

This reform will:

· End the default presumption of contact with a parent where there is evidence of history of abuse.

· Empower family courts, local authorities and safeguarding professionals to prioritise children’s welfare without outdated assumptions.

· Offer reassurance to non-abuse parents that their child will not be forced into unsafe contact arrangements.

· Reflect the tireless efforts of campaigners and MPs, including Fenton-Glynn, who have advocated for reform through Parliament and survivor engagement.

Why This Change Reflects Garden House Solicitors’ Values

At Garden House Solicitors, our mission is to protect families through expert, compassionate legal support. We work across family law, safeguarding, education and special needs to promote fairness and safety for all.

This legislative change reinforces the principles we stand for. It means:

· Family Law Solicitors must update advice, assessments and client guidance to reflect the new presumption.

· Parents and carers must be aware that the “automatic access” is no longer guaranteed where risk is proven.

· Safeguarding professionals can act with greater authority when a child is at risk.

· Families in contact disputes can now seek safer, healthier outcomes through the courts.

What Happens Next

The coming months will bring clarity as the Government finalises and implements the new legislation.

Watch for:

· Legislative drafting: How the law integrates into existing frameworks such as family court proceedings and Children Act guidance.

· Implementation and training: How courts and local authorities prepare to apply the new rules.

· Funding and enforcement: Ensuring the reform is properly resourced and effective in practice.

· Support for parents and carers: Strengthening emotional, legal and financial assistance for families affected by abuse.

· Ongoing monitoring: MPs, campaigners and survivors will hold the system accountable to ensure this reform leads to real world safety.

How Parents and Practitioners Can Prepare

· Legal professionals: Review your policies and risk assessment protocols to align with the new contact rules.

· Parents and carers: If you are concerned about a child’s safety, seek early legal advice and keep records of any evidence or incidents.

· Safeguarding and family support organisations: Update training materials and referral procedures to reflect the new baseline.

At Garden House Solicitors, our family law team are ready to guide you through these changes and ensure your children’s safety remains at the heart of every decision.

Conclusion

This reform represents a fundamental shift in UK family law, one that places child protection above all else. When legislation recognizes that abusive parents should not have automatic access to their children, we move closer to a family justice system that truly safeguards every child.

At Garden House Solicitors we commend Josh Fenton-Glynn MP and all campaigners for their dedication to reform. We stand ready to assist parents, professionals and organisations in adapting to this change and ensuring it delivers safer, healthier outcomes for families across the UK