Westmorland and Furness Council has issued a warning to parents after a significant rise in the number of Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) for children missing school during the 2024/25 academic year.
A total of 2,083 FPNs were issued by the council, marking a sharp increase from just 94 fines the previous year. Of these, 2,069 were first-time fines and 14 were second fines. The council says this represents an increase of 1,989 fines compared to the 2023/24 academic year.
The fines generated a total of £128,860 in gross income, with £126,940 from first fines and £1,920 from second fines. Additionally, two prosecutions for non-attendance were completed, with another two pending.
The councils Access to Education Service Manager emphasised that children may only miss school for valid reasons such as illness or exceptional circumstances approved by the school. Holidays during term time, family celebrations, and other leisure activities are generally not considered acceptable reasons for absence.
In a letter sent to parents the council issued a reminded that FPNs can be issued to any adult with parental responsibility, including biological parents, guardians, or anyone caring for a child. The maximum number of FPNs that can be issued per child is two within a three-year period. If the limit is reached, the council may pursue further action such as prosecution or parenting orders.
A Fixed Penalty Notice is issued as an alternative to prosecution in a Magistrates’ Court. First-time fines are set at £160, or £80 if paid within 21 days. Second fines are £160 and must be paid within 28 days. Failure to pay a FPN may result in prosecution, with fines of up to £2,500 per parent per child, along with court costs or other measures.
The council has published a detailed Code of Conduct and FAQ on its website to explain the FPN process and the circumstances in which fines are issued.
The council said “its priority is to support regular school attendance and that fines are a last resort, but it will act decisively where children are absent without good reason”.
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