Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
2nd Report – Scrutiny of the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill
Education Committee
HC 732
Published 28 February 2025
Recommendations
10
Accepted
Require local authorities to consult domestic abuse charities on FGDM decisions involving abuse.
Recommendation
We consider that local authorities should draw on the advice of specialist domestic abuse charities in coming to a decision on whether FGDM is in the child’s best interests where domestic abuse has occurred. (Conclusion, Paragraph 41)
Government Response Summary
The government accepts the recommendation, committing to develop updated statutory guidance and best practice guidance with the support of specialist domestic abuse charities to help local authorities assess FGDM decisions where domestic abuse has occurred.
Department for Education
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Conclusions (1)
7
Conclusion
Accepted
Young people in care are significantly more likely to have experienced trauma and adverse experiences than their peers, and therefore strong mental health support is crucial. Although local authorities are required to assess the emotional and mental health of children in their care, evidence suggests this does not always happen …
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the committee's concern that mental health assessments for children in care do not always happen in practice, despite existing requirements. It commits to reviewing and updating statutory guidance on 'Promoting the health and wellbeing of looked-after children' to consider what changes are needed to further ensure support.