More Worcestershire parents prosecuted for school non-attendance

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 5 Nov, 06:11 · Archive

Thirty-four Worcestershire parents were taken to court for failing to ensure their children attended school in the last financial year.

Thirty-four Worcestershire parents or guardians were prosecuted for failing to secure their child's regular attendance at school in 2025/26, all resulting in court action under the Education Act 1996. This represents a significant increase from thirteen prosecutions in 2024/25, though it follows 29 prosecutions in 2023/24.

Absence figures in the county are substantial. More than 15,000 pupils are marked as persistently absent, whilst over 2,300 are severely absent.

Worcester's Labour MP Tom Collins said he was 'naturally concerned' by the numbers. He stated: 'Nobody wants to see children unnecessarily missing school, nor do we want to see families facing fines or prosecutions for school absence.' Mr Collins attributed difficulties partly to financial pressure on families and noted that the government was working to provide relief in the latest budget.

He linked many cases to what he described as a crisis in provision for children with special educational needs and disabilities in Worcestershire, arguing the education system needed 'deep change'.

How it is being reported

• More parents in court for failing to get children to school as SEND crisis loomsMore parents are being taken to court for failing to ensure their children attend school.Worcester News · 5 Nov, 05:00
• More parents in court for failing to get children to school as SEND crisis loomsMore parents are being taken to court for failing to ensure their children attend school.Malvern Gazette · 5 Nov, 05:00

In this story: Worcestershire · Tom Collins · Worcester

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