Holidays and School Trips

Where there is a proposal for a child to go on holiday or a school trip in the UK, the relevant social worker should give approval, unless it has previously been agreed this is not necessary (which may apply for holidays or trips up to four days as set out in Overnight Stays and Social Visits Procedure, Social Visits/Overnight Stays) that the home can make the arrangements without seeking approval.

If the home is permitted to arrange holidays and trips without seeking approval, the social worker should still be informed, preferably in advance or as soon as possible afterwards.

Where the holiday or school trip will interrupt contact arrangements between the child and parents or siblings, consideration should also be given to making alternative suitable arrangements.

Where there is a proposal for child to go on holiday or school trip abroad, the child's social worker must always give approval, having consulted the child's parents.

Where the parents consent, their consent must be obtained in writing. Where parental consent is not given, the social worker may need to seek legal advice as to whether the holiday can go ahead. 

If the child requires a Passport, the social worker should be consulted on the procedures within the local authority for it.

For more information see Identity and Passport Services Guidance Notes for Social Services Departments when applying for passports on behalf of ‘ Looked After Children’.

Where the holiday or school trip will interrupt contact arrangements between the child and parents or siblings, consideration should also be given to making alternative suitable arrangements.