Parenting Orders were primarily designed to help and support parents and carers when their children get into trouble. A parent/carer who receives an order will normally be required to attend guidance or counselling sessions for up to three months.  A Parenting Order can be imposed on the parents or guardians of:

• a juvenile aged between 10 and 16 who is convicted of an offence 
• a child aged 10 and over who is subject to an Anti-Social Behaviour Order or a Sex Offender Order 
• a child under the age of 10 who is subject to a Child Safety Order 
• a child who does not attend school regularly 

Any parent or carer that a young person lives with, including step-parents, can be given an order. Parents who do not live with the young person but who have regular contact, may be issued with a separate order. In either case, parents may be required to attend counselling or guidance sessions to help deal with the young person's behaviour, prevent them from leaving home during set hours, and ensure they attend school regularly.

What factors help the court to decide to issue a Parenting Order?

Initially, the court will collect information on family circumstances, and assess the effect a Parenting Order may have. The assessment will involve a meeting with a Youth Offending Team Officer who will explain the problems and issues that may have contributed to the court appearance. The officer will consider whether a Parenting Order, or simply voluntary help, will be most suitable and recommend the course of action that will be of most help to the family. 

Complying with a Parenting Order

A parent or guardian subject to an order must inform their Youth Offending Team Officer if they are unable to attend an appointment, and they may be asked to produce a sick note if they are ill. Parents or guardians should also attend court to show support for their child, to receive advice about being placed under a Parenting Order, and also to take the opportunity to express their views if asked by the court. 

If a parent or guardian fails to meet the conditions of a Parenting Order, they will receive a written warning. Failure to comply to this will result in a further court appearance, and if convicted, a fine of up to £1,000.

Contact us:

Youth Offending Team

Telephone 0151 495 584 0 (there are 4 incoming lines. You can replace the last 0 with 1, 2 or 3)