Parents warned of final chance on truancy

Date published: 12/05/2006

Parents across Rochdale borough whose children persistently play truant from school are being warned that in the coming weeks, and before the end of the summer term, Penalty Notices are likely to be used to tackle the problem.

Announcing the first use of such notices in the borough, Ann Tipton, Head of Learners' & Young People's Service said, "No-one likes to take this type of action, but it gives a clear message that the authority is serious about truancy. It is aimed at those parents who are capable of ensuring their children are at school, but are unwilling to take responsibility."

"Parents and pupils alike need to appreciate the importance of being at school. Missing out on their education can do immense damage to young peoples' life chances, and can lead to problems of crime and anti social behaviour."

To help parents and carers understand their responsibilities, Rochdale Council's Education Welfare Service is providing an advice sheet. This explains what the penalty notices are, when they might be used, how to pay if you do receive one and what might happen if you don't.

If any fines are not paid, under the legislation the Council is legally bound to prosecute for the original offence, rather than for the non-payment.

Education Welfare Service Team Leader Janet Vinter added, "These new powers can also be applied to condoned absence, where children are out of school excessively on holidays or shopping trips in term time. Being late for school can also count as absence."

The Education Welfare Service promotes and enforces attendance by providing support and advice to schools, families and communities. Our approach is one of being firm but fair, to work with schools and families, but also to take legal action where necessary

Advice and support is available to parents and carers if they are finding it hard to ensure their child's attendance at school. They are welcome to contact the Education Welfare Service on (01706) 715638.

Background information
Section 23 of the Act gives powers to the Local Education Authority and other designated bodies to issue Penalty Notices where a parent/carer is considered capable of but unwilling to secure an improvement in their child's school attendance. The powers came into force on the 27 February 2004.

What is a Penalty Notice?
Under existing legislation, parents/carers commit an offence if a child fails to attend regularly and the absences are classed as unauthorised (those for which the school cannot or has not given permission). Depending on circumstances such cases may result in prosecution under Section 444 of the Education Act 1996.

A Penalty Notice is an alternative to prosecution, which does not require an appearance in Court whilst still securing an improvement in a pupil's attendance.

Payment of a Penalty Notice enables parents to discharge potential liability for conviction.