uk laws smacking

<p>Smacking children has always been a controversial subject. Whether or not it is socially acceptable has been a huge debate that still continues.</p> <p>New law may be bringing an end to that debate – as the law stands it is illegal to smack anyone – including a child. However, there is a legal defence to allow parents to smack their child.</p> <p>That legal defence is now being binned by the Scottish and welsh governments who believe it no longer needs to be there and children should not be smacked at all.</p> <p>This will mean that England is the only place within the UK where parents can smack their children legally.</p> <p>This legal defence is considered on a case by case basis, but the general rule is that the smack shouldn’t leave a mark on the child.</p> <p>This applies to parents and guardians; however, nannies and babysitters are allowed to smack the child with the consent of the parents or guardians.</p> <p>Smacking can come under child cruelty, especially if it leaves marks and makes, wounds or causes any grievous bodily harm.</p> <p>pexThe law still needs to be passed in wales, however, the welsh minister for children is optimistic about it being passed. Irranca-Davies has said It can no longer be acceptable in a modern and progressive society for children to be physically punished,” he said.</p> <p>“It is right that as a Government, we take action to protect children and support parents to use positive and effective alternatives to physical punishment.”</p> <p>The NSPCC Cymru/Wales added: “We welcome the steps being taken by the Welsh Government towards removing the defence of ‘reasonable punishment’.</p> <p>“Every child deserves equal protection under the law and should be protected from such draconian forms of discipline.</p> <p>“It is wrong that a defence which does not exist in a case of common assault against an adult can be used to justify striking a child.</p> <p>“Closing this loophole would also bring Wales in line with dozens of countries around the world.”</p> <p>The debate continues as campaigners push towards passing this reform into Westminster and English law.</p> <p>If you’re concerned about a child’s safety or feel that they need any help or support you should ring the NSPCC, and raise your concerns with them.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p>