Skip to Content
Home > News > News > Railway Children’s response to the King’s speech

our Response to the King’s Speech

Following the King’s Speech last week, Railway Children’s CEO Rob Capener responds to the news that children’s safety and wellbeing will be prioritised in the government’s new plans and policies.

Date: 24th July 2024

“With millions of children living in poverty and experiencing poor mental health – and the potential negative outcomes we know this can have in adult life – we are pleased to see that plans are being made to tackle these issues in the King’s Speech.

“The Children’s Wellbeing Bill is a particularly encouraging move, as it will help to strengthen multi-agency child protection approaches to ensure more children are “safe, healthy, happy and treated fairly”. Many of the vulnerable young people we work with are known to social services and need support navigating issues such as low self-esteem, disengagement from education and difficult family relationships. We hope that this new policy will help to make sure their needs are fully met and that they have the same opportunities as all other children.

“We also welcome the news that there will be a legal definition for child criminal exploitation included in the Crime and Policing Bill. The increased focus on criminal exploitation will help to make sure that young people at risk are identified and provided with better protection, without being criminalised.

“We hope the government will now work to address some of the secondary risks to vulnerable young people and their families, including poverty, violence and homelessness, to prevent them from reaching crisis and give them the best chance to succeed.”

Latest stories

What does the new care reform charter mean for street-connected children? 

The new Global Charter on Children’s Care Reform is a powerful step toward a world where every child can grow up in a safe, loving home.

Date: 21/10/2025

Rail industry unites to celebrate Safeguarding Champions

Rail professionals from around the country attended Railway Children’s Safeguarding Champions event, celebrating their commitment to supporting children at risk on the network. 

Date: 17/10/2025

Over £130,000 raised in three major fundraising events

Rail industry professionals from across the UK have raised more than £130,000 for Railway Children through three recent fundraising events.

Date: 09/10/2025

How a sewing machine brought hope to a struggling family

Martha’s story shows the amazing change girls can create when they’re given the chance. 

Date: 10/10/2025

How to cope with constant crisis events in the news

If the news is getting you down, you’re not alone. Here are some tips to help you cope.

Date: 09/10/2025

Unlocking potential

As September rolls around, many are getting ready for a new school year – new books, new friends, and the excitement of learning and working toward their dreams. But for a lot of children, that’s not a reality. 

Date: 28/8/2025
Close

Image collage showing young people in the UK, India and Tanzania

Join us

Sign up to receive email updates about our work protecting children around the world, and how you can help to change lives.

You can unsubscribe at anytime.

Sign up

Translate »