The Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill was debated in Parliament on Wednesday. The bill includes measures to reform children’s social care and help reduce the number of children missing education, key measures:

• School attendance registers: Councils must maintain a register of children not in school, with parents and education providers sharing relevant details.
• Unique child ID numbers: A consistent identifier will help track and support children more effectively.
• Stricter home education rules: Parents cannot home-educate children under child protection plans without council approval.
• Safe home interventions: Councils can require school attendance if home environments are unsafe.
• Multi-agency safeguarding panels: Councils must ensure professionals collaborate to protect children.

The bill aims to address gaps in the current system and prioritise children’s safety and wellbeing.