Violent Crimes Against Parents by Children Up 60% Since 2015, London Data Shows
Data from the Metropolitan Police reveals a significant increase in violent crimes committed by children against their parents or stepparents in London. In 2015, there were 1,886 recorded offences involving suspects aged 10 to 17, rising to 3,091 offences in the first ten months of 2025. This represents more than a 60% increase over the decade.
The surge appears to have accelerated during the Covid-19 pandemic, though the numbers had been climbing since 2015 and have plateaued in the last two years. Reports from CAPA First Response indicate a 90% rise in referrals over the past two years. Contributing factors include greater awareness, increased help-seeking behaviour, ongoing family stress such as child poverty, and unmet expectations.
Cuts to adolescent mental health and children’s services have been linked to the reduction in early support, which might have mitigated risks for some families. Filial violence remains a highly hidden and stigmatized issue. Evidence suggests that onset of violence can be early, often peaking between ages 14 and 16. However, prevalence is uncertain, with serious violence estimated at 3–5%, and up to about 10% when broader definitions are used.
Experts note that the rise in reported incidents may reflect both real increases and greater recognition and availability of services, alongside broader social and economic pressures.
