hello,can you help me ,please

SarEl

I knew that nobody would like what I said. I wish to point out again that this is not my opinion. And it doesn't matter how many posters have walked to school on their own at the age of 5 in 1947 or 1993. These are the tests applied by statutory authorities. Schhols are "marked" on both attendance and lateness - frequent lateness is sooner or later going to lead to questions. If this comes to their attention they may not just "deal with it" - they may call Social Services. Or what about the nosy neighbour - there are plenty of them around. It takes one phone call and Social Services will be on the doorstep. I don't have to like it, you don't have to like it, it's just a fact. The link I posted is the NSPCC's guidance - and that makes it clear that children who are not mature enough to remember to eat, or to get to school, and who are left alone for long periods on a frequent basis, would prompt questions about neglect. Not my rules - theirs.

Sambucus_Nigra

SarEl wrote: »

I knew that nobody would like what I said...Not my rules - theirs.

It's it the truth that your best friend is the one that tells you the truth...even if you do not want to hear it.

SarEl

Sambucus_Nigra wrote: »

It's it the truth that your best friend is the one that tells you the truth...even if you do not want to hear it.

I know, I know. Better someone says it here and gives the OP the heads up than she finds out when and if Social Services are on the dorrstep.

McKneff

I agree totally with SarEl, It did occur to me at first but I didnt know enough about it to say.

Like she says, it is illegal, and whilst no one thinks that the Op doesnt care about her children, the fact is that English is obviously not her first language, she may not be aware of English Law. I too used to go to school on my own, wander for miles on my own or with friends, I baby sat 3 brothers when I was as young as 11, but as she says, it's a different world these days. Hope things work out for you Op, do yu have an OH who can help out or some neighbours where the children could go for an hour on a morning before they go to school, or someone who could sit with them in your house for a while.

kingfisherblue

SarEl's post might not be popular with some posters, but it doesn't mean that it isn't true. The OP is in danger of being accused of neglecting her children. Although there is no legal age at which children can be left alone, it is illegal to leave children who cannot look after themselves. The OP states that sometimes her children do not eat or get to school on time, therefore you have proof that they cannot look after themselves. It doesn't sound as though it has only happened once, because she says 'sometimes', which implies at least a few times.

OP, you sound as though you want to work and to do your best for your children at the same time, but you really need to take note of SarEl's comments. She is a respected poster who is giving you accurate information. Please don't be offended by this, she is telling you soemthing that might not be pleasant to hear, but it is something that you really should know. I wish you well in sorting out your situation.

SarEl

kingfisherblue wrote: »

I wish you well in sorting out your situation.

As do I - but please get some advice and help. It is clear that you care for and love your children very much, and that you are, as I said originally, trying to do your best by them. I regret to say that there are plenty of parents who could learn from your efforts. Which is why it is important to get something sorted out here - nobody wants to see the authorities involved, least of all you I am sure. It isn't difficult to find people who can provide you with advice and support locally - lots of community organisations and voluntary groups can do at least something to hep. But you have to ask them!

cr1mson

Just a thought but if you are starting early do you finish early? Just wondering if you could do some childcare swapping with someone who needs help after work? So they look after your kids before work and you look after theirs after work.

C

anitie211

thank you for comments .i dont work this week becuse i am on holiday and i will look for help .SarEl you give me good advice but now i am afraid of social services.i never imagine that social services can be called to my house because i let my children alone.i will do all my best for my children and they will be never alone .thank so much for coments and help .inglish is not my first language thats why i cant write much more .happy new year to everyone

SarEl

I think we all understood that Engliush isn't your first language and You don't have to be afraid of Social Services. I know a lot of people who work in Social Services and their first concern would be to help you and the children. But it is just better if you can find other ways of helping yourself and not have them involved. There really are a lot of people and resources in this country to help you - you just have to find out what is available and what can be done. You aren't alone in being a struggling single parent. You could try these people http://www.gingerbread.org.uk/ There are a lot of local groups and they may be able to point you towards the right people to help. Happy New Year to you, and I hope that 2012 sees you getting some help that will mean you can support your family and be there for your children.