Mental health experts have criticised a lack of action by the government to tackle underlying issues behind persistent school absences such as poor emotional wellbeing and poverty.
Tackling risk factors such as poor mental health in early years is among “the most effective preventive measures” that can be taken to tackle poor attendance.
But a report by the Children and Young People’s Mental Health Coalition and the Centre for Mental Health warns there “has been a significant lack of action” by government in this area.
Instead, ministers are introducing stricter rules around fines for parents of absent children, while enacting “substantial cuts to preventative support”.
