Child-to-Parent Abuse (CPA) is a form of domestic abuse that affects around 3% of UK families, yet a lack of consistent definition and language creates barriers for those seeking support. At PEGS, we believe that having an agreed definition is essential to ensure shared

language across sectors and professionals, breaking down barriers for those identifying with CPA and reducing confusion.

A clear and unified definition will improve understanding, facilitate better access to support, and ensure that parents and carers are not left without recognition. With the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 statutory guidance already using the term 'child-to-parent abuse', it seems

logical and necessary to continue with the same language across all sectors.

The Home Office conducted a public consultation on defining CPA, which ended in February last year, for various reasons, no official definition has yet been decided. This ongoing lack of clarity continues to create difficulties for families and professionals alike.

It is vital to centre the voices of those directly impacted by CPA when determining the most appropriate terminology. Within PEGS’ closed peer support group, we asked over 2,000 parental figures how they identify with the language used to describe their experiences.

Over 90% stated that CPA was their preferred term, with 4% suggesting CAPVA (Child and Adolescent to Parent Violence and Abuse) and 1% choosing Aggressive and Harmful Behaviours.

This overwhelming preference for CPA highlights the need for a consistent and widely recognised term that aligns with the lived experiences of those affected. Using different language across sectors risks creating unnecessary confusion and barriers to support.

Parents commented;

‘I vote to keep it simple as possible; a long name just means people will get confused.’

‘CPA makes sense to me, CAPVA is a mouthful, harmful behaviours will leave people scratching their heads, what constitutes harmful behaviours?'

‘Aggression towards a parent minimises what is happening to some parents, e.g physical assault is more than aggression‘

‘It is abuse, for me using anything other than this is unhelpful to me as the parent, to my child and to anyone else.’

‘If it was my partner, we would call it abuse, why would we call it anything different because it is my child.’

‘My experience is abusive, I am fearful of my child, I am being abused, anything less than abuse is not showing the true reality of what so many of us are having to deal with daily.’

‘It is my child, I am the parent, I am being abused – this is literally what child to parent abuse is. Why would someone call it anything different?’

So why does a consistent definition matter?

      1. Ensures Shared Language – Professionals, policymakers, and support services using the same terminology will improve communication and create a more cohesive response to CPA.

     2. Breaks Down Barriers – Parents and carers may struggle to identify with certain terminology, which can prevent them from seeking help. A clear and recognised term helps remove these obstacles.

     3. Reduces Confusion – Mixed terminology leads to misunderstandings between agencies, professionals, and families, delaying crucial interventions and support.

     4. Aligns with Existing Frameworks – With the Domestic Abuse Act recognising CPA, maintaining this language ensures consistency and reinforces its legitimacy across sectors.

The need for a clear definition of CPA is further highlighted by national initiatives recognising the issue. We have a Domestic Abuse Commissioner dedicated to addressing all forms of domestic abuse, including CPA. Additionally, CPA now has an annual awareness day

(14th October) to drive public and professional awareness and recognition of the issue. The Child-to-Parent Abuse Covenant, backed by the Department for Work and Pensions, also aims to provide greater support for affected parental figures.

Moreover, it is essential to recognise that we no longer use the term 'domestic violence'—instead, we refer to 'domestic abuse' to better reflect the broad range of behaviours that constitute abuse. Ensuring CPA is firmly embedded within this framework is crucial to providing families with the recognition and support they need.

For families experiencing CPA, recognition and appropriate support are vital. Establishing a universally accepted definition ensures that no one is left struggling due to a lack of understanding or inconsistent language.

At PEGS, we remain committed to amplifying the voices of those affected, advocating for a unified approach, and ensuring that CPA is recognised, understood, and responded to effectively. If you are a parent or carer experiencing CPA or a professional looking for

guidance, please reach out to us. Together, we can ensure no family faces this issue alone.