Editors’ Edition
Protecting Our Children from the Children’s Wellbeing & Schools Bill
Suhba Club Editors
Our children are growing up in a time when every new policy claims to protect them, yet, more often than not, it chips away at our right to raise them. For Muslim parents educating at home, this isn’t just politics it’s about safeguarding the trust Allah placed in us.
Allah reminds us in the Qur’an“O you who have believed, protect yourselves and your families from a Fire whose fuel is people and stones…”1
This verse reminds us that our duty as parents extends beyond the home, to protect our children’s islam and identity from the forces that seek to shape them.
The UK government is introducing new legislation that could significantly impact the way we raise and educate our children. TheChildren’s Wellbeing and Schools Billis presented as a step toward supporting families, yet a closer look reveals provisions that raise serious concerns for parents and educators alike.
Much like the Online Safety Act, this bill presents itself as protecting children, but in truth, it gives the government sweeping control over your child’s life, data and even your right to decide how they are educated and cared for.
Here’s what’s at stake:
- Digital IDs for every child: Every child would be assigned a digital ID, with no parental control over who can see it or how it is used. [Clause 16LB, Part 1 — “Consistent identifiers for children]
- Erosion of parental rights: Local authorities would decide what constitutes a “suitable education,” potentially overruling parents in matters of learning, values and faith.
- Loss of confidentiality: Sensitive family information could be shared without parental consent. [Clause 4 Section 16LA]
- Restricted flexibility for vulnerable children: Children with special educational needs (SEN) or other vulnerabilities could be denied flexible learning arrangements, leaving some children at a severe disadvantage.
As has been highlighted in Parliament, the government frames this as a ‘relationship’ issue, but we need to call it what it truly is: an overreach into our homes and families.
As parents, our role is to nurture and protect our children, not hand over their lives to bureaucrats.
This bill is not happening in isolation. It comes alongside the Online Safety Act and the push for digital IDs. The pattern is clear: these measures are part of a broader agenda to exert total control over citizens.
What we can do practically
Stay informed– Read the Bill, follow parliamentary debates and review reliable analyses. Understanding the details is the first step in protecting our children.
Engage your local MP– Reach out via email, phone, or in person. Raise your concerns clearly and respectfully about how this legislation may impact parental rights and your child’s education.
Strengthen our community– Share resources, hold discussions and support fellow parents. A connected and informed Muslim community is a strong defence for our children’s future.Join Our Club initiatives– Together, we are:-Seeking legal guidance to understand parents’ rights and potential challenges.-Partnering with like-minded organisations to coordinate advocacy and share critical information.-Hosting seminars and workshops to empower parents with strategies to protect children’s education and wellbeing.
Unite for collective action– By standing together, our voices are stronger. Community action amplifies our influence and helps safeguard the rights of all children.
Muslim parents must remain vigilant and discerning. Do not be swayed by the seemingly benevolent language of this legislation, our responsibility is to safeguard both our children and our parental rights. Ensuring our children’s wellbeing requires staying informed, raising awareness and actively advocating for their right to learn and grow in an environment guided by our Islamic values.
Above all, we must turn to Allah for guidance and support, placing our trust in Him as we strive to safeguard our families and their future.
We’ve just launched theSuhba Club Channelon WhatsApp. Join now for valuable guidance on parenting. Follow the channel to stay updated on new articles, practical resources and important developments surrounding this legislation.
Children’s Wellbeing & Schools Bill (as introduced)
Title:Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill [Bill 151, 59/1]
Link:https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/bills/cbill/59-01/0151/240151.pdf
Policy Summary Notes
Title:Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill: Policy Summary Notes (as amended in the House of Commons)
Briefing for MPs / Parents
Title:Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill – Briefing for MPs(by the Children’s Commissioner)
Debate in House of Commons (March 18, 2025):“Legislation: Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill – House of Commons”
Surah At-Tahrim [66:6]
More from this edition
New editions, straight to your inbox
Join the families already reading — new Editors’, Student, Parent and Members Editions land in your inbox as soon as they’re published.
Free forever. A confirmation email will arrive shortly after you subscribe.