New section 25A: Parenting contracts in respect of anti-social behaviour: local authorities
227.New section 25A(1) sets out the circumstances in which a local authority can enter into a parenting contract with a parent of a child or young person. These are where it has reason to believe that the child or the young person has engaged, or is likely to engage, in anti-social behaviour and where the child or the young person resides, or appears to reside, in the authority’s area.
228.New section 25A(2) indicates that a parenting contract is a document containing a statement by the parent that he or she agrees to comply with any requirements specified in the contract, for any period so specified, and a statement by the local authority that it agrees to provide support to the parent to help him or her comply with the requirements of the contract. New section 25A(3) states that the contract may, in particular, include a requirement for the parent to attend a counselling or guidance programme.
229.New section 25A(4) states that the purpose of any requirement in a parenting contract is to prevent the child or young person from engaging in anti-social behaviour, or further such behaviour. New section 25A(5) specifies that the contract must be signed by the parent and on behalf of the authority.
230.New section 25A(6) makes clear that no obligations in contract or tort are to arise from any breach of the contract.
231.New section 25A(7) requires local authorities in England, when carrying out their functions in relation to such contracts, to have regard to any guidance issued by the Secretary of State. It also requires local authorities in Wales, when carrying out their functions in relation to such contracts, to have regard to any guidance issued by the National Assembly for Wales.