Written question asked by Sandra Gidley (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 16 November 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 21 November 2005. It was answered by Maria Eagle (Labour) on Monday, 28 November 2005 on behalf of the Department for Education and Skills.

Domestic Violence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what action she (a) has taken and (b) plans to take to ensure that statutory agencies provide appropriate protection for children who have experienced domestic violence.

Answer: The Government recognise the strong links between child protection concerns and domestic violence. We have published guidance, for all statutory agencies and other organisations and individuals with a relevant interest, in our inter-agency guidance ‘Working Together to Safeguard Children' (1999).‘Working Together' helps to support the integration of effective local practice and stresses that everyone working with women and children should be alert to the frequent inter-relationship between domestic violence and the abuse and neglect of children. Working Together is being revised and updated and this includes further reinforcing the messages on the links of domestic violence and child protection.The ‘Every Child Matters: Change for Children' programme will improve the welfare of all children by putting in place arrangements for earlier and more effective assessment and intervention for vulnerable children, including those affected by domestic violence.

Secondary information