Consultation on the Children (Abolition of Defence of Reasonable Punishment) (Wales) Bill

Tystiolaeth i’r Pwyllgor Plant, Pobl Ifanc ac Addysg ar gyfer craffu Cyfnod 1 Bil Plant (Diddymu Amddiffyniad Cosb Resymol) (Cymru)

Evidence submitted to the Children, Young People and Education Committee for Stage 1 scrutiny of the Children (Abolition of Defence of Reasonable Punishment) (Wales) Bill

CADRP-633

CADRP-633

 

About you

Individual

1      The Bill’s general principles

1.1     Do you support the principles of the Children (Abolition of Defence of Reasonable Punishment) (Wales) Bill?

— Yes

1.2     Please outline your reasons for your answer to question 1.1

(we would be grateful if you could keep your answer to around 1000 words)

To respect children's human dignity it is essential that children are protected from all forms of violence. Violence is never justifiable. There is a lot of evidence to show the short and long term harms of physical punishment of children. Parents and caregivers should be supported to use non-violent communication to raise and guide their children.

1.3     Do you think there is a need for legislation to deliver what this Bill is trying to achieve?

(we would be grateful if you could keep your answer to around 1000 words)

Yes, legislation is a necessary component to ensure fulfilment of children's rights. Legislation can also help change harmful social norms and attitudes

2      The Bill’s implementation

2.1     Do you have any comments about any potential barriers to  implementing the Bill? If no, go to question 3.1

(we would be grateful if you could keep your answer to around 1000 words)

To overcome resistance from some members of the general public there should be more discussions about positive parenting on radio programmes, Welsh Tv shows, in social media, newspapers etc

Positive parenting schemes for all mums, dads, caregivers should be supported to enhance skills and knowledge on positive parenting and non-violent communication, with a particular emphasis on listening to children's views and feelings

2.2     Do you think the Bill takes account of these potential barriers?

(we would be grateful if you could keep your answer to around 1000 words)

I think there has been quite a lot of discussion on potential barriers and ways to overcome them. Commitment to take forward this Bill is needed.

3      Unintended consequences

3.1     Do you think there are there any unintended consequences arising from the Bill? If no, go to question 4.1

(we would be grateful if you could keep your answer to around 1000 words)

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4      Financial implications

4.1     Do you have any comments on the financial implications of the Bill (as set out in Part 2 of the Explanatory Memorandum)? If no, go to question 5.1

(we would be grateful if you could keep your answer to around 1000 words)

The investments needed to implement this law will be sound investments, as it will benefit children, families and Welsh society in a positive way

5      Other considerations

5.1     Do you have any other points you wish to raise about this Bill?

(we would be grateful if you could keep your answer to around 1000 words)

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