The physical punishment of children is now illegal in Wales under new legislation that took effect in March.
Under the Children (Abolition of Defence of Reasonable Punishment) (Wales) Act 2020, all types of physical punishment, including smacking, hitting, slapping and shaking are illegal – affording children the same protection from assault as adults.
The move means Wales joins more than 60 nations across the world that have banned the physical punishment of children.
Deputy minister for social services Julie Morgan said: ‘We want to protect children and their rights and this law will add to the fantastic work we are doing to make sure all children in Wales have the best start in life and to live the lives they want to live.’
Image credit | iStock
