Petition · past parliament

Make it compulsory for vulnerable children to attend school during COVID-19

Rejected 11 signatures

What the petition asks

I would like to see that vulnerable children are safe, as whilst they are at school someone can keep an eye on them. Children on child protection plans need protecting, and when they are in school they are safer.

Why it was rejected

It was not clear what the petition asked the UK Government or Parliament to do.

The Government's guidance on supporting vulnerable children and young people during the coronavirus already states that vulnerable children and young people’s attendance is expected, with some exceptions.

The Government has stated that parents will not be penalised if their child does not attend educational provision, but decisions about legal action to enforce school attendance are a matter for the local council and school, not the Government or House of Commons.

If you have concerns about the welfare of a child you should contact your local children's social care team.

Timeline

19 May 2020 Petition opened for signatures
3 Aug 2020 Rejected by the Petitions Committee

Key facts

Signatures 11
Status Rejected
Rejected 3 Aug 2020

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Jul 2026.