South-East European Research Centre (SEERC)

Perceptions of what is harmful to children has changed significantly in England and the Western world over the past 30 years. In this presentation consideration will be given to the research in the 1990s and the highly publicised deaths of children from abuse that gave rise to a widening interpretation of the term ‘harm’. This has changed from a narrow focus on child abuse and neglect to a much wider brief to protect and promote the welfare of children. Drawing on my developmental work with the English government, in terms of policy and practice guidance, and my research in this area, the presentation will explore the changes that have taken place and the implications with regard to both ways in which children are perceived and the increased responsibilities placed on parents and communities to meet the needs of children.