Parenting Orders

A Parenting Order aims to help you prevent your child from re-offending and/or to improve their school attendance.

Parenting Orders are issued by Magistrates Courts under the Crime and Disorder Act 1998, to parents or carers of young people who have got into trouble. The child or young person will be 16 or under and may have committed an offence or been the subject of an Anti Social Behaviour Order, a Sex Offender Order or a Child Safety Order.

The court will also be able to make an Order if you have been convicted of failing to ensure your child attends school regularly.

The Order can last for between 3 and 12 months. It may require you to attend counselling or guidance sessions, for example in parenting skills and managing your child’s behaviour. It can also specify ways in which you are required to control your child's behaviour, such as making sure that they stay at home at certain times or go to school every day.

How is a Parenting Order made?

The court must look at your family circumstances and what effect a Parenting Order may have. This is called an assessment.

As part of the assessment you will meet with a member of the Education Welfare Team to talk over your problems. They will recommend the support that is the most helpful to you and your family.

What if I don't go to court?

A Parenting Order can be made in your absence but it is best if you do go to court so that you can answer any questions and express your views if the court asks for them.

Your solicitor will also be able to give you legal advice about being placed on a Parenting Order and your rights of appeal.

Contact us

For more information please contact the Education Welfare Service.