Residents of Bridgend County Borough are being reminded that new laws preventing the physical punishment of children are now in place across Wales.
Under the change of law, all types of physical punishment for children – such as smacking, hitting, slapping or shaking – are now illegal.
Intended to protect children from assault and to make the law clearer for children, adults and professionals to understand, the new law covers all punishments involving physical force.
In line with any other criminal offence, someone who physically punishes a child now risks being arrested, charged with assault and gaining a criminal record.
To help raise awareness of the change in law, Welsh Government is launching a new ‘Ending Physical Punishment’ publicity campaign.
More information about the ban on physical punishment can be found at theWelsh Government website.
Bridgend County Borough Council also offers a wide range of support and advice to parents and families which can be found on the local authority’s website.