Policy, Law & Research

This section provides clear, factual explainers on the laws, policies, and research that shape public services, decision‑making, and safeguarding in England and Wales.

It is designed to support public understanding of how systems work — and where legal powers, duties, and limits apply — without offering legal advice or commenting on individual cases.

What this section covers

• Primary legislation (Acts of Parliament)
• Statutory guidance and government policy
• Regulatory frameworks and public‑body duties
• Research evidence relevant to children, families, safeguarding, health, justice, and social care
• How law, policy, and research interact in real‑world systems

How to read our explainers

Each explainer focuses on:

• What the law or policy is
• What it allows or requires
• The limits that apply
• How it is commonly used in practice

Where relevant, articles include a short plain‑English summary of research findings to help readers understand what evidence shows, without academic referencing or advocacy.

Research and evidence

Research summaries are included to inform understanding, not to promote specific models, interventions, or branded approaches.

They are written to be accessible to non‑specialist readers and reflect broad findings across disciplines, including:

• Child development and psychology
• Social policy and public administration
• Law, safeguarding, and systems accountability
• Health and wellbeing research

What this section is not

This section does not:

• Provide legal advice
• Offer professional or therapeutic guidance
• Comment on live proceedings or identifiable cases
• Advocate for specific outcomes, services, or reforms

Readers affected by individual situations should seek independent legal or professional advice.

Editorial approach

All content is produced in line with our Editorial Standards.

Explainers are evidence‑informed, systems‑focused, and written with care to avoid harm, misinterpretation, or undue alarm.

Where laws or policies change, articles may be updated to reflect current frameworks.