22 October 2025

The Government has announced a plan to repeal the presumption of parental involvement from the Children Act 1989, as evidence shows that 'assuming' that it's in the child's best interest to have both parents involved can perpetuate the abuse. 

The change follows the tireless campaigning of Claire Throssell, whose sons were killed by their abusive father 11 years ago. 

Sarah Fulham, Director of domestic abuse services at Hestia, said:

“Hestia welcomes the government’s plan to repeal the presumption of parental involvement from the Children Act 1989. This long overdue reform will strengthen protections for survivors of domestic abuse and their children.  

We pay tribute to Claire Throssell, whose courage and tireless campaigning spearheaded this change.  

As the reform progresses, it will be vital that professionals in the family courts receive the right training and guidance to manage these complex cases and understand perpetrator behaviour. Without this, there is a real risk that perpetrators could misuse the legislation to further control or harm survivors.”

At Hestia, we support adults and children who have experienced crisis and trauma, to find safety, hope and purpose - including adults and children escaping domestic abuse. Hestia's refuges also provide tailored support for children through our Children and Family Workers, Child Wellbeing Practitioners and specialist therapeutic support.

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