Parents could face prison for child's crimes under justice reforms, minister says

September 19, 2026 - 07:36

Parents who fail to control their children could face prison time or lose their benefits under proposed changes to Parenting Orders, a government minister has said.

Jake Richards MP told the Times that the reforms are designed to strengthen the consequences for parents whose children repeatedly break the law. The measures would expand the range of penalties available to courts when Parenting Orders are breached, including custodial sentences in serious cases.

Parenting Orders are currently used to require parents to attend counseling sessions, supervise their children more closely, or take other steps to prevent further offending. Supporters argue the orders can address the root causes of youth crime, but critics say they are often poorly enforced and lack real teeth.

The proposed changes would give judges more power to impose tougher sanctions when parents ignore the terms of an order. That could include fines, community requirements, or in extreme cases, a prison sentence. The plan also raises the possibility of docking benefits for parents who refuse to comply.

Richards said the government wants to send a clear message that raising a child who commits crimes is not something parents can simply ignore. He argued that early intervention and firm accountability go hand in hand.

Youth justice groups have reacted with caution. Some warn that punishing parents could deepen poverty and family breakdown rather than solve the underlying problems. Others say the focus should remain on mental health support, youth services, and education.

The reforms will be debated in Parliament in the coming weeks. If passed, the new powers could come into effect next year.