Families and the state. Two-way support and responsibilities

An inquiry into the relationship between the state and the family in the upbringing of children from the Commission on Families and the Wellbeing of Children (2005).

The Commission on Families and the Wellbeing of Children
The Commission was established in April 2004 to consider the relationship between the state and the family in providing children with a humane and caring upbringing in the 21st century. It was established by the National Family and Parenting Institute (NFPI) and NCH, with support from the Joseph Rowntree Foundation.

In examining the dividing line between family autonomy and legitimate state intervention, and the scope of the state's obligations to support families, the Commission has been guided by the Human Rights Act 1998 and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child 1989.

Families and the state. Two-way support and responsibilities
This report was published in 2005 following the Commission's inquiry into the relationship between the state and family in the upbringing of children. The report calls for a new ethic of care in public policy to support family relationships and children's wellbeing.

It highlights the substantial minorities who are faced with poverty, poor mental health and inequalities in physical health and education. It recommends a framework of universal family services to which all parents and families would be legally entitled, as well as specialist support for families in conflict or with series difficulties that carry greatest risks of harming children's development.

The report makes 14 wide ranging recommendations for change. The report can be ordered at http://www.familyandparenting.org/publications#p_36