Consensual outing
Question
Im 17 and want to go on a school trip abroad, but the school is insisting on the written consent of my estranged father. My Mum is happy for us to have contact with him, and there is no access dispute between them. However, I choose not to speak to my Dad, and he has caused problems like this in the past. Can I go on the trip without my father's signature?
Answer
It does seem strange that the school is asking for the consent of your father because under the parental responsibility rules you only need to have his permission if you are going to be outside the UK for more than a month.
You might want to point the school to the Children's Legal Centre (CLC) where they can see that his permission is not required. You, or the school, can call the helpline on 0845 456 6811.
The only problem you may face is that the school may accept the evidence but still refuse to take you without his permission because they fear legal action or their insurers are insisting on this.
Because you are over 12, any action taken regarding contact with one or other of your parents should take your wishes into account.
If you decide to talk to the CLC you may like to ask if you can take action in the courts to make the school take you without his permission.
Updated: 22/01/2009
Question answered by CAB
