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Children: Northern Ireland

Asked by Jim AllisterTraditional Unionist VoiceNorthern Ireland OfficeTabled Answered 11 February 2026UIN 111057

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what recent steps he has taken to help support (a) safeguarding reform in Northern Ireland and (b) cross‑border learning with safeguarding regulators in England, Scotland and Wales under the Four Nations Memorandum of Understanding.

Answered by Hilary Benn

Safeguarding is a devolved matter and the development of safeguarding policy and legislation is the responsibility of the Northern Ireland Executive.

This Government remains committed to working with partners across the UK to ensure the safety and protection of children and adults at risk. It is right that the four nations continue to collaborate to share best practices and maintain professional alignment across the United Kingdom.

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