Education welfare

The law says that all children of compulsory school age (5-16) must receive a full-time education. Parents and carers are responsible for making sure this happens.

If you fail to ensure your child attends school, the local authority can take legal action against you. A fixed penalty notice of up to one hundred pounds can be issued and continued absence may lead to further legal action being taken. The education welfare service carries out regular truancy sweeps.

Worried about your child’s attendance?

The education welfare service is available to give advice, information and support on:

• School attendance
• Exclusions
• Bullying and problems at school
• Alternative education provision
• Child protection concerns

We work in partnership with families, encourage the involvement of families in all decisions that are made and put the educational needs of the child at the centre of the work that we and others do.

All young people deserve the chance to make a success of their lives.  Please don’t let your child miss out on the education they deserve.

School Uniform Assistance

Herefordshire Council used to provide financial assistance through the Education Welfare Service to families who were unable to buy school uniform for their children.  Unfortunately, the Council no longer has money available to provide this service.  If you are unable to afford school uniform, please contact your child's school's Chair of Governors who may be able to help.  Contact details for school offices can be found on our school search page.