28 October 2025
Protecting a child’s best interests: presumption of involvement with both parents to be removed
By Carly Sullivan, Senior Associate, Hayes + Storr.
In a landmark move, the UK government has announced sweeping reforms to children law that will make it harder for abusive parents to gain contact with their children. Sparked by years of campaigning and advocacy, these changes represent a pivotal shift in how courts prioritise child safety in private law contact cases.
At Hayes + Storr, we welcome these reforms and stand ready to help families navigate this new legal landscape with clarity, compassion, and confidence. This is more than a policy update; it’s a cultural shift that challenges long-held assumptions about family structure and parental rights.
What’s Changing?
At the heart of the reform is a review of the presumption of parental involvement. A long-standing legal principle assumed it was generally beneficial for a child to have contact with both parents. In recent years, this presumption has faced growing criticism following tragic cases where courts granted access to abusive parents, with devastating consequences.
Under the new framework, this presumption will now be subject to stricter scrutiny. Courts must consider the full spectrum of domestic abuse, including coercive control, emotional harm, and psychological manipulation, not just physical violence – before granting parental contact.
This means:
- No automatic contact rights for parents with a history of abuse
- Greater emphasis on child welfare over parental entitlement
- More robust safeguarding procedures within family court proceedings
These reforms ensure that child safety is not compromised in the pursuit of parental involvement, a long overdue and necessary step in protecting vulnerable families.
What This Means for You
If you’re a parent seeking protection for your child, or navigating a complex contact dispute, these reforms could have a significant impact on your case.
Our child law team is here to:
- Help you present clear, compelling evidence of abuse, including non-physical forms
- Advocate for protective measures such as supervised or no-contact orders
- Ensure your voice – and your child’s safety – are heard in court
Our experienced expert child law team recognises that evidence gathering and safeguarding advocacy are now more critical than ever. Solicitors will need to be proactive in requesting protective measures, such as supervised contact or no-contact orders. Early case law will also shape how courts interpret these reforms, so it’s vital to stay informed and well-prepared.
Why Choose Hayes + Storr
At Hayes + Storr, we combine recognise that trauma informed care is vital alongside legal expertise. We understand the emotional weight of family law disputes and are committed to guiding clients through the process with empathy and professionalism.
We offer:
- Reduced fixed fee consultations for family law matters
- Discreet, compassionate support from experienced solicitors
- A proven track record in safeguarding vulnerable clients
Ready to Talk?
If you’re concerned about how these changes might affect your family, don’t wait. Contact Hayes + Storr today to schedule an initial private conversation about your situation. Together, we can ensure your children’s future is protected by the law, and by the right legal team. Call 01328 863231 or email law@hayes-storr.com.
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. The law may have changed since publication.
