By APAN Newsdesk –

Kirklees Council has levied fines exceeding £660,000 on parents for unauthorised pupil absences since 2021, according to a recent investigation.

The investigation, undertaken by Legal Expert, uncovered a dramatic 287% increase in the number of fines issued over the past three years.

The council has confirmed that more than 500 cases have been prosecuted following non-payment of these fines.

Now, starting in August 2024, parents taking their children out of school for term-time holidays will face even heftier penalties of £160.

Currently, unauthorised absences result in a £60 fine, which doubles to £120 if not paid within 21 days. Failure to pay within 28 days can lead to prosecution.

The full research data from Legal Expert can be read here: https://www.legalexpert.co.uk/how-to-claim/council-and-local-authority-compensation-claims/unauthorised-pupil-absence-fines/

Overview of Penalties

Data obtained through Freedom of Information requests reveal a sharp rise in the number of fines issued.

In the 2021/22 academic year, 1,500 penalty notices were handed out, a figure that surged to 4,378 the following year.

This academic year, up until June 24, the council has already issued 5,805 fines, with the total expected to reach a record high by year’s end.

The fines collected amounted to £84,920 in 2021/22, increased to £253,200 the following year, and have reached £328,201 so far this year.

This brings the total fines issued since 2021 to £666,321.

Further Prosecutions

Parents who fail to pay these fines risk further actions, such as Education Supervision Orders, Community Orders, or even jail time.

The council confirmed 532 prosecutions due to non-payment, and 1,779 fines were not paid within the 21-day deadline – about 15% of the total fines issued since 2021.

Increase in Fines

From August 2024, the fines will increase to £160 for parents taking children out of school for holidays during term time, alongside a new national framework.

The framework will require schools to mandate fines when a child misses ten or more sessions (five days) without permission.

The Department of Education emphasises that fines are a last resort, with support offered first to help improve attendance.

However, it notes that 89% of fines for unauthorised absences are due to term-time holidays.

Poll

With the decision to increase the fines now set to go ahead. We want to hear from you. Let us know your thoughts on the fines using our poll below.