... Kelly, the key worker, would have to keep an open mind before jumping to conclusions. If Barbara did smack Jasmine then that would not be considered as breaking the law. Edward states (2002, p.10): "It is not illegal in the UK for parents to smack their children because the law allows them to administer 'reasonable chastisement'." Jasmine's key worker has also noticed that Jasmine's mum, Barbara, 'has not looked herself lately', has been late picking up the children, not dressed smartly and looks stressed. Edwards states (2002, p.15) "Adults respond to stress in different ways; and how they respond can have an effect on their capacity to offer safe care to their children." Jasmine's mum could be under stress for a number of reasons. Her husband works full time, she has three children under the age of six, one with a disability who could demand a lot of attention, Beckett (2005,p.89) argues: "...there ...

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