There are many negative consequences of persistent non-attendance at school - such as higher risk of poor attainment and employment outcomes, juvenile and adult crime, isolation and poverty.
Reasons for non-attendance can include the avoidance of social situations at school, attention seeking behaviour, reducing the feeling of separation anxiety (from parents), and the pursuit of more rewarding activities outside school. A small group of children and young people do not attend school due to medical conditions. It is very important to understand why a young person is not attending as the reason will determine the type of help that could be provided.

Suggested reading:

West Lothian Council's Attendance Policy
"Included, Engaged and Involved: Attendance in Scottish Schools" - the Scottish Government

Useful websites:

www.anxietyuk.org.uk
www.handsonscotland.co.uk

Useful contacts:

Your school - See list of West Lothian schools here
West Lothian Council's Children & Young People's Team - Tel. 01506 776928 - email cypt@westlothian.gov.uk