Parenting in the UK
‘Parenting in the UK’ is a guide for parents who are refugees and asylum seekers and others who are new to the UK. Arriving in a new country presents many challenges. Parents need to adjust rapidly to unfamiliar systems, laws, social norms, expectations, rights and responsibilities. This video explains the UK’s education system, what parents can expect from schools and what schools ask of parents. And it explains the UK’s laws and expectations for keeping children safe from physical and emotional harm, with important implications for how parents are expected to supervise and disciplining their children here.
The information has been selected by parents who themselves arrived in the UK as refugees or asylum seekers. It is based on what they wish they had known when they first arrived. They hope it helps others avoid problems.
There is also a separate document with detailed information about schools and education in the UK. These videos are part of the North East Migration Partnership’s Welcome & Induction Programme for newly arriving Refugees and Asylum Seekers and are made in partnership with the Regional Refugee Forum North East.
Parenting in the UK comes with important responsibilities and rights, supported by laws and services designed to keep children safe and help them thrive. Different agencies, such as social services, schools, and healthcare providers, have specific roles and powers to protect children from harm and ensure their wellbeing. From birth, support is available for parents, especially before a child turns five, through health visitors, early years programs, and childcare options.
Education is a legal requirement in the UK. Children aged 5 to 11 attend primary school, and from 11 to 16 they move on to secondary education. After 16, young people can continue with education or training until they are 18, and there are opportunities beyond that, including sanctuary scholarships for those seeking refuge. Parents play a key role in supporting their child’s learning journey and ensuring they attend school regularly, as this is required by law.
Keeping children safe also means protecting them from bullying, hate, and cyber abuse. Parents should help their children understand the laws around alcohol, drugs, tobacco, and sex, and guide them in making safe choices. Managing expectations around sleepovers and possessions, supervising children at home and outside, and understanding the law about children and cars are all part of responsible parenting.
Discipline is another area where UK law is clear. Physical chastisement is not acceptable, and there are alternative ways to guide children’s behaviour without harm. Violence and abuse between parents can have a serious impact on children, and the law strictly prohibits practices such as female genital mutilation or circumcision. Listening to your child’s voice is essential, and parents also have rights that protect their role in decision-making and family life.