Growing Opposition to Physical Punishment of Children in the UK
Recent polls and studies highlight a shift in public opinion against smacking, with increased support for legal reforms.
- A majority of adults in England now support banning smacking, reflecting a significant change in societal attitudes towards physical punishment.
- Research indicates that over 20% of 10-year-olds in the UK experienced physical punishment recently, despite declines in its prevalence.
- Scotland and Wales have already banned physical punishment, while England and Northern Ireland face calls for similar reforms.
- Experts argue that physical punishment damages trust and relationships between parents and children, advocating for alternative disciplinary methods.
- Ahead of the general election, there is a push for political parties to commit to giving children the same protection from physical assault as adults.
The Telegraph 