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Policy & Campaigns

Our mission is to improve the lives and safety of children by providing research, training and support for those involved in child protection.
We believe policy will only work effectively to protect children and support families if the choices made by decision-makers are informed by the best available evidence from both research and practice. We combine cutting edge research with the benefits of cross-sector experience to provide an in-depth understanding of the causes and effects of child abuse and neglect, and the systems and context around it. We use this knowledge and experience to influence policy and enable best practice across the UK.

Add your voice to our work by becoming a member. Find out more about the benefits of membership.
Consultations
Previously known as BASPCAN, the Association has responded to numerous consultations by government and professional bodies over many years and has made a significant contribution to the development of public policy on child protection.
The four nations that make up Association of Child Protection Professionals (England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales,) are each represented in the current membership of our Education, Learning and Policy Sub Committee. This provides an opportunity to draw on the experience of these different nations when the Association examines and contributes to consultations. Our multidisciplinary membership ensures we can capture a range of professional views, where this is appropriate.

Completed reports
& consultations

September 2019
Read our response to the call for evidence
February 2019
Our consultation response is here
January 2019
Read our response to the consultation
December 2017
Read our response to the consultation
Consultations during 2016

Campaigns we are supporting

The law governing decisions about children in care in England is soon to change dramatically. The Department for Education has created a two-tier care system which we strongly oppose because of the harm and suffering it will cause to children.

From 9 September 2021, for the first time ever, the law in England discriminates on the basis of age when decisions are made about where children in care live.

Article 39 children’s rights charity is legally challenging these discriminatory changes through a judicial review, which is currently listed to be heard in the High Court in December. The AoCPP stands with them and has pledged its full support to this campaign.

No to pain-inducing restraint
Read more about this campaign
ECPATS Stable Futures
ECPAT UK is launching a new phase of its campaign, focusing on “stable futures” for child victims of trafficking.

‘Trafficked and unaccompanied teenagers are just like other young people their age, with hopes and dreams for the future. While they may have experienced unimaginable trauma, they are resilient, resourceful and full of potential. Yet under the current system, they are often unable to recover, live stable lives and plan for their future.’
Read more about this campaign
Campaign to end child imprisonment
‘On 22 November 2018, Article 39, the Centre for Crime and Justice Studies, Howard League for Penal Reform, INQUEST, Just for Kids Law and the National Association for Youth Justice launched the first-ever collaborative campaign to end child imprisonment in England. Many other organisations and individuals have since pledged their support.’
Support this campaign