Should parenting classes be compulsory for all new parents?
Parenting classes are not compulsory in the UK. Antenatal classes and parenting programmes are voluntary, offered through the NHS, councils and charities such as NCT. Since April 2026, Best Start Family Hubs have operated in every council area in England, offering free, voluntary parenting support, backed by over £900 million over 2026 to 2029. A 2016 plan from David Cameron's government sought to make classes socially normal through vouchers, not to make them mandatory.
3 Opinions
How do you force people to go? People who don't want to engage won't even if you make them attend somehow
Talk about state intrusion much. Yes, some families genuinely need intervention, but you don't blanket mandate the whole country just to reach them.
Not sure people would engage with a compulsory scheme. And how would you punish people if they don't turn up?