Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
Recommendation 64
64
Accepted
Rising child neglect linked to poverty lacks clear DfE strategy and social care response.
Conclusion
Neglect is sadly on the rise in England and is clearly linked to poverty and poor parental mental health. The Department for Education does not appear to have a clear strategy for addressing neglect and there are concerns that the social care system is not set up well to respond to neglect referrals. (Conclusion, Paragraph 160)
Government Response Summary
The government states that tackling child neglect is a key part of the children’s social care reform programme, embedded in the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill. They describe multiple initiatives including Family Help, multi-agency reforms, early intervention, equipping professionals, and a commitment to reducing child poverty, to address the issue.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
Tackling child neglect is a key part of the broader children’s social care reform programme and is embedded in the legislative measures outlined in the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill. The introduction of Family Help and reforms to multi- agency child protection and family networks aim to transform how support is delivered to children and families in need. Insights from the Family First Partnership Programme highlight the importance of early intervention in preventing material pressures from escalating into neglect. To strengthen safeguarding, we are equipping teachers, social workers, and other professionals with tools to identify abuse and neglect earlier, supported by the National Children’s Social Care framework and updated statutory guidance. The Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill also enhances the role of education in multi- agency safeguarding, ensuring schools have a clear voice in local arrangements. Alongside these reforms, our commitment to reducing child poverty—both in this Parliament and through a ten-year strategy—will support wider efforts to address the root causes of neglect.