Parental Control Agreements
Parental Control Agreements are another of the tools the council uses to tackle nuisance youths.
What is a Parental Control Agreement?
A Parental Control Agreement (PCA) is very similar to an Acceptable Behaviour Agreement and is used in cases involving children under 18 years. It offers a structured and balanced way for the council and the Police to work with parents and guardians of nuisance youths on a voluntary basis. Parents/guardians may be involved in drawing the agreement but they are expected to accept their responsibility as parents. This means they must take steps to address their child's behaviour and their progress will be monitored.
What is contained in a Parental Control Agreement?
At Welwyn Hatfield Council the PCA will:
- identify the partners and the parent(s) concerned
- give the date that the Agreement is made
- list a clear, concise set of the measures that the parents must take in order to stop the nuisance behaviour continuing. For example, "I will make sure my child is home by 9pm and does not play football in the street".
- show the consequences of breaching the Agreement
- list the council and Constabulary's obligations to support the Agreement and monitor the progress of the youth and the parent(s) involved
- offer a declaration from the parent(s) that they accept their responsibilities and are committed to making the Agreement work
How is a PCA monitored?
A meeting is held every month between the parent and agencies concerned, to review the Agreement and discuss any issues that have arisen. If necessary, the Agreement can be changed to further support the parent.
What happens if a Parental Control Agreement is breached?
If the young person continues to behave in an anti-social manner after their parent has signed a PCA, the council may consider applying for an Anti-Social Behaviour Order. If we do apply to the Court for an ASBO the judge is obliged to make a Parenting Order if they believe it to be necessary in order to prevent further anti-social behaviour or offences. If the case involves council tenants we may also consider taking steps through the Court to repossess the property.