We, the undersigned, call for the introduction of reasonable, proportionate financial penalties for parents or legal guardians where their children (under the age of 18) repeatedly engage in anti-social behaviour, criminal damage, bullying – including online bullying – or other conduct that causes harm, distress or disruption to our community. Currently, when children behave in ways that break the law or affect others negatively, there are often limited effective consequences, and young people cannot always be held legally responsible in the same way adults can. This can leave victims feeling let down and without justice, while problems may continue unchecked because there is greater support needed to ensure parents take responsibility for guiding and supervising their children properly.

These penalties are not intended as a punishment alone – they are designed to act as a clear incentive for parents to take active steps to address their child’s behaviour, work to correct wrongdoing, and seek any necessary support or guidance. This would help ensure there are proper, fair consequences for harmful actions, encourage shared responsibility for raising responsible young people, and help build a safer, more respectful community where everyone is treated fairly and protected. We believe this approach should be part of a wider set of solutions, alongside better access to parenting support, youth services and education, to help families and young people make positive changes where they are needed.