Imagine a world where it was perfectly legal to physically discipline a child. Sounds shocking, right? That was the reality in Wales until recently, and the shift has left many, like mother-of-two Mari Ellis Dunning, completely baffled. Nearly three years after Wales introduced a ban on smacking, the debate continues, and the data reveals some surprising insights.
According to a Welsh government report, hundreds of parents have attended out-of-court parenting courses since the ban took effect in March 2022. The report also indicated that "fewer than five" cases were referred to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), with no convictions.
But here's where it gets controversial... Opponents of the ban argue that it diverts police resources from serious crimes and strains social services. The Welsh government, however, framed the law as a way to "protect children's rights while adopting an educating and preventative approach which avoids criminalizing parents." This approach involved police referring individuals to out-of-court parenting support, with 365 referrals between April 2022 and March 2025. Impressively, 310 individuals completed the course, with 265 reporting a positive outcome.
Data from three of Wales' four police forces revealed 6,200 cases of physical punishment since the act's implementation, a rise from 3,900 before the ban. However, the report found that no one had been convicted of assault or battery on a child since the ban. Mari, who lives in Aberystwyth with her sons, reflects on the importance of raising children to become well-adjusted adults.
The ban removed "reasonable chastisement" as a legal defense, meaning anyone who smacks a child in Wales can be arrested and prosecuted. Social Justice Cabinet Secretary Jane Hutt proudly stated that the ban is "something we must be very proud of." Single parent Antonia Merola Jones from Mold, Flintshire, expressed her delight with the ban and hopes it will be implemented across the border in England. She emphasized the lack of proven benefits and potential harm associated with physical punishment, adding that public support for ending such punishment is strong.
And this is the part most people miss... The report also highlighted that "positive parenting techniques and awareness from parents and carers is increasing." While some professionals reported increased time-consuming processes, these challenges have been "partially mitigated." The data suggests the act's aim is being realized in practice. Jane Hutt believes the review "shows the law is embedding well."
However, Simon Calvert from the Be Reasonable campaign group, which opposed the ban, argues the law is costly and diverts resources from serious crimes. Dr. Ashley Frawley, a sociologist and Be Reasonable supporter, noted the impact of being investigated for assaulting a child, even without prosecution. NSPCC chief executive Chris Sherwood praised the "trailblazing work" in Wales, which has changed public opinion and improved child safeguarding.
What do you think? Do you agree with the ban on smacking, or do you believe it infringes on parental rights? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
