Children Act 2004: Chapter 31

This Act, given Royal Assent on 15th November 2004, sets out provisions for the following: an establishment of a Children's Commissioner; making provision for services to and for children & young people by local authorities; provisions for support services in Wales relating to family proceedings; provision about private fostering; child minding; day care; the adoption of review panels; the defence of reasonable punishment; grants for children and families; child safety orders; the Children's Commissioner for Wales; the publication of material relating to children in legal proceedings and the disclosure of information relating to children in possession of the Inland Revenue.

The Act is divided into two parts, the first part establishing the role and function of the Children's Commissioner, and where the Commissioner can hold enquiries into non-devolved matters in other parts of the UK.

Whilst part two gives effect in England, to the principle legislative proposals contained in the Green Paper (Cm.5860 Every Child Matters ISBN 0101586027), to support better integrated planning, commissioning, and delivery of children's services and provide for clear accountability.