Domestic abuse should have been specifically referred to in the Children Bill because it is present in two-thirds of all child protection registered cases.

Speaking at a session on domestic abuse, chair of the Cheshire Domestic Abuse Partnership Sue Bridge claimed it was also a common feature adversely affecting children's educational attainment, mental health and behaviour.

Given its presence at the root of so many issues across police, health and social care, it was a missed opportunity not to address it head-on in children's legislation and "name it", she said.