Child arrangements are often difficult to get right following a relationship breakdown, but in usual circumstances these can be set in place via agreements between separating couples.

There are, however, genuine circumstances where children need protecting from an ex-partner, not least in instances where domestic abuse has been present in the relationship.

The Domestic Abuse Bill recently passed into law means children are now recognised as victims of domestic abuse.

If abuse was present in the relationship, violent or not, and children were exposed to it, they are considered victims of the abuse, and protections are available to prevent any further exposure to it.

Domestic abuse often includes domestic violence, but violence does not need to be present to define abuse. Domestic Abuse can also comprise psychological, sexual and financial abuse, as well as coercive control.