Child Protection Authorities
The Inquiry recommends that the UK government establishes a Child Protection Authority for England and the Welsh Government establishes a Child Protection Authority for Wales. Each Authority's purpose should be to: improve practice in child protection; provide advice and make recommendations to government in relation to child protection policy and reform to improve child protection; and inspect institutions and settings as it considers necessary and proportionate. The Child Protection Authorities in England and in Wales should also monitor the implementation of the Inquiry's recommendations.
Response
Accepted
Response
AcceptedWe accept the need for a stronger safeguarding system. We will ensure the relevant actions included within our reform programme, Stable Homes, Built on Love, fulfil this recommendation.
The Government will create a Child Protection Authority (CPA) in England, building from the national Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel. In 2025/26, the Panel will receive the resources it needs to increase its analytical capacity and its capability to develop high-quality material for practitioners. In parallel, the Government will consult this year on a roadmap to a CPA, setting out actions that can be taken relatively quickly and those that require legislation.
Progress Timeline
Government launched formal consultation on establishing Child Protection Authority in England on 11 December 2025. Consultation closes 5 March 2026, with response expected summer 2026. CPA to be set up in shadow form pending primary legislation.
Creating Child Protection Authority in England, building from Child Safeguarding Practice Review Panel. Resource increase for Panel in 2025/26, consultation on CPA roadmap in 2025, with full CPA implementation timeframe to be determined.