Child protection, with legislative underpinning and societal norms, is a relatively recent concept. It has been said famously that the UK prizes animals above children. Indeed, in 1839, when cruel forms of animal profiteering like dog fights had been banned, nearly 50,000 children toiled in workhouses in brutal conditions. It took until World War II was nearly over before the UK had its first child death inquiry, in 1945, regarding Dennis O'Neill, who was killed at the age of 12 by his foster father.

Since then, progress has been slow to recognise child abuse in all its forms, from the more blatant forms like physical violence and female genital mutilation to the more subtle – but no less harmful – such as neglect, emotional harm, spiritual abuse, exposure to domestic abuse, and exploitation, to name but a few.

There are still enormous gaps in the framework developed over the past 80 years. There is no statutory duty to provide early help services for the vast majority of children, including those living in poverty, children with imprisoned or disabled guardians, and children exposed to domestic abuse, or drug or alcohol misuse in their families.

Supporting and assisting these children and their families pose challenging questions, such as:-

- When does lifestyle choice or parenting choice descend into abuse or neglect?

- What does being part of this family cost the child?

- How readily should the State intervene in the lives of private citizens?

This weekend will examine these questions and many others concerning this difficult area of law. You will hear from judges and lawyers but also from those on the front line of dealing with families and children affected by these issues. You will be preparing and delivering advocacy including witness handling and submissions.

Come and join us for what promises to be a thought-provoking and educational weekend. It will give you the opportunity to discuss issues surrounding this difficult area with practitioners, ju