'Call for Evidence' launched for Children’s wellbeing and schools bill

The Public Bill Committee has opened a Call for Evidence on its Children’s Wellbeing and Schools bill, which has passed its first and second reading in the House of Commons.

The Bill has two parts, with the first focusing on children’s social care and the second on schools.

Measures in the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill include the requirement for all councils to hold a register of children who are not in school.

The Bill also includes the introduction of a unique number for every child – in the same way every adult has their own national insurance number – to join up systems and make sure no child falls through the cracks. A consistent identifier will allow those responsible for the safeguarding and welfare of children to better join relevant data and identify children who will benefit from additional support.

It also includes the removal of the automatic right for parents to educate children at home if their child is subject to a child protection investigation or under a child protection plan.

The Public Bill Committee on the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill will meet for the first time on Tuesday 21 January 2025.