Overview
- Maya Chappell’s family confirmed a parliamentary debate has been secured after their petition passed 110,000 signatures, with a date yet to be set.
- Prime Minister Keir Starmer called the case tragic, said he will keep a careful eye on the debate, and vowed to do everything possible to support the family.
- The proposed Child Risk Disclosure Scheme would create a legal duty for police, councils, health services and social care to share safeguarding information and allow families to request risk histories, drawing on models like Clare’s Law and Sarah’s Law.
- Regional MPs and Durham Police and Crime Commissioner Joy Allen have pledged to support the family during the debate and press for changes to safeguarding laws.
- Ministers previously signalled reluctance to adopt the scheme, with children’s minister Josh MacAlister saying last year it was not the time to introduce it.