SECTION 5 Absent Without Permission 5.1
There are a number of situations where children will be considered as absent without permission. There is an expectation that carers within the constraints of the care setting would take similar steps as a responsible parent. This approach is set out in the Social Services Inspectorate practice guidelines. Being absent without permission does not in itself place a child at risk. Leaving the care setting without permission, prearranging activities and going to them without consent, not returning on time, leaving but being on the centre grounds or in the locality, and so on, do not, as a general rule, warrant the implementation of an unauthorised absence procedure. Instead the response should reflect the fact that children test boundaries. Formal reporting of a child to the Garda SĂochĂĄna in these circumstances is not appropriate and it does not assist the development of responsible social learning. Based on Social Services Inspectorate Practice Guidelines on responding to Unauthorised Absences (Appendix A)
19 December 2008
13