University of Edinburgh Research Sheds Light on Lifelong Challenges for Children Bereaved by Parental Domestic Homicide

The University of Edinburgh has released findings from a major study examining the long-term effects of parental domestic homicide on children across the United Kingdom and Ireland. Led by researchers in the School of Social and Political Science, the work highlights profound and enduring consequences that extend well into adulthood, including trauma, stigma, and disrupted family and social identities.

Domestic homicide, defined as the killing of one partner by another in an intimate relationship, leaves children in uniquely vulnerable positions. The study underscores how these young people often face immediate upheaval followed by years of inadequate or mismatched support.

Background to the Study and Its Scope

Conducted by Professor John Devaney, Centenary Chair of Social Work, alongside Dr Zain Kurdi and Dr Claire Houghton, the research draws on in-depth interviews with 32 participants. These included adults who experienced the loss of a parent to domestic homicide during childhood, as well as caregivers and professionals from health, social care, law enforcement, and domestic abuse services.

The project builds on earlier work exploring family violence and child welfare, addressing a significant gap in understanding the specific experiences of this group. Findings point to systemic shortcomings in how services respond to children’s emotional, identity, and relational needs following such tragedies.

Key Findings on Immediate and Long-Term Impacts

Participants described how physical safety often took precedence in the aftermath, while emotional wellbeing and sense of self were frequently sidelined. Many children were abruptly separated from siblings, moved between multiple carers, or uprooted from familiar schools and communities without meaningful input into these decisions.

Some survivors reported being required to maintain contact with the parent responsible for the killing, despite feelings of fear or distress. These experiences contributed to a sense of powerlessness that persisted for years.

Into adulthood, many continued to grapple with stigma and silence. Interviewees spoke of feeling “different” from peers and burdened by assumptions that they were permanently damaged or at risk of repeating cycles of abuse. Tailored mental health support proved difficult to access, with specialist organisations and peer groups offering relief for some but leaving others without appropriate care.

Legal, Financial, and Practical Complications

The research also draws attention to ongoing legal and financial hurdles. In certain cases, convicted perpetrators retained parental rights or influence over decisions involving passports, school records, and medical treatment. Family assets sometimes remained entangled, creating additional stress for surviving children and carers.

These complications highlight the need for clearer legal frameworks that prioritise children’s safety and autonomy long after the initial event.

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Policy Context and Recent Developments in the UK

The study arrives at a pivotal moment for Scotland, which introduced a new domestic homicide and suicide review system in April 2026 with a dedicated focus on children and young people. Researchers welcomed this step but emphasised that consistent, child-centred approaches are still required across all UK and Irish jurisdictions.

Broader calls for reform include better recording of the number of children affected, expanded access to trauma-informed mental health services, stronger legal protections, and wider peer support networks. The team also advocates for more sensitive media reporting to avoid retraumatising families.

International Comparisons and Best Practice Examples

Researchers point to models such as Italy’s ‘special orphans’ legislation, which provides dedicated legal, financial, and psychological support for children whose parent has been killed through domestic abuse. Such approaches offer potential templates for UK policymakers seeking more comprehensive responses.

By learning from these examples, the UK could strengthen safeguarding frameworks and deliver more coordinated, compassionate support.

Implications for Higher Education and Professional Training

The findings carry significant implications for higher education institutions training future social workers, psychologists, lawyers, and policymakers. University programmes in social work and related fields at institutions like the University of Edinburgh are well positioned to integrate these insights into curricula, preparing graduates to deliver more effective, child-centred responses.

Enhanced training in trauma-informed practice, family law, and inter-agency collaboration could help address the gaps identified in the study. Research roles and academic careers focused on violence prevention and child welfare stand to benefit from increased attention to this area.

Recommendations from the Research Team

The report outlines ten key recommendations directed at governments, policymakers, and frontline services. These emphasise systematic data collection, improved mental health access, legal reforms, expanded peer networks, and meaningful consultation with children in decisions affecting their lives.

Implementation of these measures could transform outcomes for affected families and reduce long-term societal costs associated with unresolved trauma.

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Future Outlook and Call for Action

As awareness grows, there is an opportunity for universities, charities, and government bodies to collaborate on targeted interventions. The University of Edinburgh’s work provides a robust evidence base for these efforts, encouraging a shift toward holistic, rights-based support that recognises children’s voices and long-term needs.

Stakeholders across the higher education sector are encouraged to engage with the findings to inform teaching, research, and community outreach initiatives.

Resources and Further Reading

Those interested in the full report can access it via the University of Edinburgh’s research repository. Additional information on related policy developments is available through official government channels and specialist organisations working in domestic abuse prevention.