Protect children from smacking, say doctors
Children's doctors have called for the prohibition of smacking children in England and Northern Ireland, decrying current laws as 'unjust and dangerously vague’. They argue that physical punishment inflicts lasting mental and physical harm on children. While Scotland and Wales have already banned corporal punishment, England and Northern Ireland still allow parents to justify smacking as 'reasonable punishment’. Professor Andrew Rowland says, 'Changing the laws in England and Northern Ireland will give us absolute clarity and ensure there are no instances where it is acceptable or lawful to smack a child’. Challenging the Government’s reluctance, Joanna Barrett has said, 'All children deserve the same protection from assault as adults’.
One in 52 Blackpool children in care as poverty soars in north of England
The north of England faces a crisis in child welfare, with one in 52 children in Blackpool in care, highlighting the urgent need to address poverty-driven disparities. A report has revealed that nine in every thousand children in the north are in care, compared to six in the rest of England. The figures indicate that £25bn could have been saved if care entry rates had been equal across regions from 2019 to 2023. Child poverty emerges as the primary driver of these discrepancies. Dr Davara Bennett, lead author of the report, has stressed the necessity for policymakers to confront systemic inequalities and prioritise preventative measures over reactive spending. Emma Lewell-Buck, co-chair of the Child of the North all-party parliamentary group, has pointed to the detrimental impact of underinvestment in social services, advocating for improved support systems for vulnerable families. The call to action urges the Government to address these issues promptly to ensure a brighter future for children and families across the region.
Scottish church leaders rally against assisted suicide legislation
Scottish church leaders are opposing proposed assisted suicide legislation, citing moral concerns and the sanctity of life. They have urged MSPs to reject the Assisted Dying for Terminally Ill Adults bill, expressing worries about crossing moral boundaries and devaluing human life. The bill, introduced by Liam McArthur, would grant terminally ill adults the right to end their lives under certain conditions. Church leaders argue that legalising assisted suicide could undermine the inherent value of all lives and lead to an ethical decline in society. They advocate prioritising palliative and hospice care to uphold dignity and compassion for those facing terminal illnesses. Despite growing public support, including a survey showing majority approval, they are emphasising the importance of maintaining equal value for every individual's life.
Headteacher who won high court prayers battle questions legal aid
The headteacher of Britain's 'strictest school', questioning the £150,000 legal aid received by a Muslim pupil to fight a prayer ban case, is concerned about potential further legal action. The High Court dismissed the student's claim against Michaela Community School's prayer policy, ruling it didn't infringe on her religious freedom. Katharine Birbalsingh has emphasised the school's values and highlighted parental choice in attending the school. The pupil, supported by her mother, expressed disappointment but affirmed her decision to challenge the ban. Government officials and secular campaigners welcomed the ruling, stressing the autonomy of schools in balancing diverse interests. The judgement also prompted calls for national guidance on religious practices in schools. The legal battle has taken a toll on the school, but its commitment to maintaining a stable learning environment remains steadfast.
