Truancy Patrols

Regular Truancy Patrols are undertaken by Humberside Police in partnership with the Education Welfare Service. Section 16 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 empowers the Police to Remove Truants to Designated Places.

The Crime and Disorder Act empowers a Police Officer to take a child or young person, who they believe is of compulsory school age and is absent from school without lawful authority, back to school or another place designated by the local education authority. The act recommends the Police are supported by an Education Welfare Officer in this process to ensure appropriate information is available to help officers in making a judgement.

 Young people found on a truancy sweep are asked to supply various details. Once the information has been verified, they are returned to either school or a place of safety.

Their parents/carers are informed and advised of potential consequences. The progress of the pupil is then monitored by school and the Education Welfare Service.

If a young person who is excluded from school is found in a public place during a truancy patrol, their parent may subsequently be issued with a penalty notice.

The attendance of children and young people contacted on truancy patrols is monitored by the Education Welfare Service and interventions made as appropriate to the needs of the child.

Truancy Watch

Truancy Watch is an initiative designed to reduce the number of young people unlawfully absent from school.

The Truancy Watch logo tells young people that if truants are seen in the area where it is displayed they can expect to be reported.

Whether you are in business, work in a community or leisure venue, are part of a community group or are a concerned resident, you can play a part in helping to reduce truancy.

With your help the Truancy Watch scheme will expand and the number of places where truants can 'hang out' unreported will fall significantly. As a result we should achieve better school attendance, lower crime rates and create a safer environment for the community.

To report truants or to find out more about Truancy Watch please call the Education Welfare Hotline:

 Tel (01472) 323208 or report truants online at http://www.safelinks.info/