In addition to young people being sentenced for offences, Courts have the discretion to impose sentences on their parents/carers if appropriate.

Parenting Orders can be given to the parents/carers of young people who offend, truant or who have received a Court Order.  A Parenting Order does not result in the parent/carer getting a criminal record.

A parent/carer who has received a Parenting Order will be required to attend counselling or guidance sessions.  They may also have conditions imposed on them such as attending their child's school, ensuring their child does not visit a particular place unsupervised or ensuring their child is at home at particular times.  Failure to fulfil the conditions can be treated as a criminal offence and the parent/carer can be prosecuted.

For more information go to the Youth Justice Board website.