Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill

Debate between Lord Nash and Baroness Longfield

Tuesday 2nd September 2025 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Longfield (Lab)]

I will make a quick intervention, if I may, just to counter the claim that the troubled families programme achieved nothing. The evidence does not tell us that, so it is important not to allow us to think that.

[Lord Nash (Con)]

I support the point that has just been made, which is perfectly valid. Some of the elements of the troubled families programme could be used for school home support for children persistently absent from school. I invite the Minister to look at that, because some of the issues with children who are persistently absent are wider family issues. They need a relationship with one partner of government rather than many, which they do not trust. The noble Baroness makes a very good point.