We are increasingly concerned about social services removing children from their mothers, especially after the mothers faced domestic violence. Mothers have come to us who, instead of getting support, were blamed for the situation and had their children taken into care or even adopted. In some cases, the children were given to the father without a thorough and independent investigation of the violence allegations. Mums are then sent to prison for breaking contact or gagging orders in order to defend their children and their relationship with them.
At the same time, women and children who ask for protection are being raped and even murdered following neglect by police and social services. The benefit cap is also trapping women and children in violent relationship, impoverishing those who escape. See our petition about this: here
To remove children from their mother or other primary carer is in itself irreparable child abuse and should never be undertaken unless there is an immediate and significant danger to the child.
The secrecy of the family courts are a major obstacle to justice and protection for mothers and children at risk of domestic violence. Their lack of accountability prevents any thorough examination of the facts, putting lay people at a disadvantage in relation to unscrupulous professionals who often have a vested interest in having children removed from their mothers. This is increasingly true as legal aid is also being cut. We support the call made by numerous parents and organisations and by John Hemming MP for these courts to follow the principles of open justice.
To contact us, war@womenagainstrape.net
www.womenagainstrape.net
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