HL Deb 13 March 2002 vol 632 cc80-1WA
Lord Grabiner

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What has been the impact of the Children Act sub-committee Guidelines for Good Practice on parental contact in cases where there has been domestic violence. [HL3281]

The Parliamentary Secretary, Lord Chancellor's Department (Baroness Scotland of Asthal)

The Lord Chancellor's Department promulgated the guidelines during spring 2001. A survey was carried out in the late autumn 2001 on the use and effectiveness of the guidelines. This has shown that they have been broadly well received and have resulted in a generally heightened focus on domestic violence issues. However, there are indications that awareness of the guidelines is patchy and that more contact centres are needed. The department is taking steps to address these issues. Copies of the analysis of the survey, including the action to be taken, have been placed in the Libraries of both Houses.