Shropshire launches updated Child to Parent Abuse Policy to strengthen support for families
Families experiencing child to parent abuse will be better supported through the Shropshire Safeguarding Community Partnership’s (SSCP) updated Multi-Agency Child to Parent Abuse (CPA) Policy, which strengthens how families are identified, supported and safeguarded across the county.
Child to Parent Abuse is recognised in Shropshire as a form of domestic abuse. It can include physical, emotional, psychological, digital, coercive, controlling, stalking, harassment or financial abuse directed towards a parent, carer, guardian or primary caregiver.
The updated policy recognises that CPA can be a difficult and complex issue for families, including where a child has SEND, disabilities or additional needs. It encourages professionals to take a sensitive, trauma-informed and family-centred approach, with support tailored to individual circumstances.
The policy provides clear guidance for professionals across partner agencies to identify concerns earlier, understand harmful behaviour, assess risk, plan for safety and work together so families receive timely and appropriate support. It also promotes a consistent county-wide response, helping reduce isolation and improve outcomes for parents, carers, children and young people.
The updated Child to Parent Abuse Policy can be accessed on the Shropshire Safeguarding Community Partnership website here.
Councillor Ruth Houghton, portfolio holder for adult social care and health, said:
“Child to Parent Abuse can be a hidden and often misunderstood form of abuse, leaving parents, carers and wider family members feeling isolated and unsure where to turn for help.
This updated policy strengthens our collective response in Shropshire, ensuring professionals have clear guidance to identify concerns early, work together effectively, and provide families with the support they need.”
Michelle John, Founding Director, Parental Educational Growth Support (PEGS) shared:
“PEGS welcomes the updated Shropshire Child to Parent Abuse policy and the continued commitment to recognising and responding to CPA locally. We have been pleased to contribute to the review of the policy and to support local professionals through training on CPA and the policy itself.
It is positive to see a local authority recognising that Child to Parent Abuse requires a specific and informed response, with professionals equipped to recognise the experiences of parents and respond appropriately. Having clear guidance in place can make a real difference to families, helping ensure that parents are not left feeling isolated or blamed and that the right support can be put in place at an earlier stage.
We hope the updated policy will continue to strengthen the understanding of CPA across Shropshire and support a more consistent, compassionate and informed response for families.”
How to get support
If you are worried that you, a family member, friend, colleague or someone you are supporting may be experiencing Child to Parent Abuse, help is available.
No one should have to manage these concerns alone. Seeking advice early can make a significant difference, helping families access the right support, improve safety and understand what options are available.
The updated policy includes details of local and national support services that can offer advice, guidance and practical support.
