Government Safeguarding Update: Children as Victims in Their Own Right

The UK Government has just released its official response to “Victims in Their Own Right? Babies, children and young people’s experience of domestic abuse.”

This marks an important shift in how safeguarding systems must protect children. Here are 4 critical updates every professional should note:

Children recognised as victims – not just witnesses. Safeguarding practice must evolve to reflect this.

Domestic abuse in Child Protection Plans – explicitly included where it is part of a child’s lived experience.

Children’s voices prioritised – pre-interview planning and assessments strengthened to ensure safe, authentic participation.

Stronger role for health & education leaders – ICBs, schools, and colleges now central in domestic abuse safeguarding systems.

The message is clear: domestic abuse cannot be treated as a background issue. It must sit at the centre of safeguarding strategy, leadership, and culture.

Read the full government response here: UK Government Paper

How is your organisation preparing to respond to this shift in expectation and responsibility?