The NSPCC campaigns to end the legal defence of reasonable punishment for physical discipline of children in Northern Ireland. Current law permits parents or carers to use this defence when physically disciplining a child.

Children in Northern Ireland receive less legal protection from physical harm than adults under this provision. The NSPCC urges all political parties to back an amendment to the Justice Bill before the NI Assembly that would eliminate the defence.

Caroline Cunningham, policy and public affairs manager at NSPCC Northern Ireland, states that physical punishment harms children's wellbeing and raises risks of behavioural and emotional issues. A 2024 Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health report indicates children facing physical punishment are up to 2.6 times more likely to develop mental health problems and 2.3 times more likely to suffer serious physical abuse.

The NSPCC invites Northern Ireland residents to sign its online petition at www.nspcc.org.uk to support equal legal protection from assault for children. Removing the defence would clarify the law and promote positive parenting practices.