The Department for Education and Skills biannual national truancy sweep began today in a bid to ensure as many young people as possible attend school, writes Clare Jerrom.

The DfES sought the help of the police service to support the latest round of truancy sweeps. Officers will work with schools and local education authorities to encourage children to attend education.

“There are well-researched links between truancy and crime and it is in the best interest of the child or young person to be in school to help them prepare for later life,” said Charles Clark, the Association of Chief Police Officers’ lead on youth matters.

The police service has a national youth strategy that supports action against school absences to support young people and also to prevent a negative impact on crime levels.