Standing Together Applauds Mandatory Reporting as a Key Step in Protecting Children

Standing Together Against Domestic Abuse welcomes the introduction of mandatory reporting, which makes it clear that domestic abuse is a critical child safeguarding issue. Domestic violence and abuse (DVA) are increasingly recognised as key factors in child-in-need assessments, highlighting the pervasive and harmful impact on children’s safety and well-being. 

The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 further reinforces this by acknowledging that children who witness or experience domestic abuse are victims themselves. This recognition is a pivotal step in ensuring that safeguarding measures are in place to protect children from both the direct and indirect harms of domestic abuse in addition to supporting their recovery in the short to long term. Every child deserves the opportunity to grow up in an environment free from abuse, and it is important for us to work collectively to create conditions that support their well-being and future potential.  

Mandatory reporting will be a crucial tool in to support early intervention and harm reduction in addition to strengthening protections for children. However, its success depends on professionals confidently and effectively identifying and act on concerns. This requires all professionals to be trained not only in recognising indicators of domestic abuse but also in understanding the nuanced ways abuse may present in different contexts and the specific vulnerabilities of children involved. Effective training should include practical guidance on initiating appropriate conversations, clear reporting protocols, and strategies to overcome potential barriers such as fear or uncertainty when escalating concerns.  
 
It is also critical that services have adequate resources to ensure meaningful responses in a timely manner. Standing Together supports this important development and will continue to advocate for the protection of vulnerable children and families. We remain committed to working alongside our partners to support the government’s efforts to halve domestic abuse and improve multi-agency collaboration for the safety of children and survivors. 

Cherryl Henry-Leach, CEO of Standing Together Against Domestic Abuse, shares,

"Domestic abuse is a critical child safeguarding issue. Mandatory reporting of concerns is a vital step in ensuring that all children, especially those who witness or experience domestic abuse, receive the protection and support they need at the earliest possible stage. At Standing Together, we are steadfastly committed to working with our partners to safeguard children and end domestic abuse."