Inspectorates find inconsistent recognition of children as domestic abuse victims despite Domestic Abuse Act 2021
Ofsted, the Care Quality Commission (CQC), HM Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS), and HM Inspectorate of Probation (HMIP) have published a joint report which finds that children affected by domestic abuse are not always recognised as victims in their own right, despite legal recognition under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021. The report identifies inconsistent practice across six local authority areas, finding that police, health and social care services often focus on adult victims, while insufficient attention is paid to children’s needs and risks. It notes significant variation in how children’s experiences are captured, gaps in professional training on domestic abuse, its impact on children and coercive control, and weaknesses in information sharing between agencies. The report also highlights examples of strong practice, including effective safeguarding work with unborn babies, with midwives demonstrating professional curiosity, awareness and understanding of the potential risks of domestic abuse. Schools and early years providers were also found to play a critical role in identifying, supporting and protecting children.