> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://pigeonholeapp.co.uk/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Enabling Parent Absence Requests

> How to set up absence notification emails so parents can submit absence requests.

# Enabling Parent Absence Requests

Parents can submit absence requests for their children directly from the Parent Portal. When submitted, an email notification is sent to the email addresses you configure.

## Setting Up Absence Emails

1. Go to **Settings** > **Site Profile**.
2. Scroll down to the **Funding & Attendance** section.
3. In the **Absence Notification Emails** field, enter the email addresses that should receive absence notifications.
4. Separate multiple email addresses with a semicolon (`;`), for example: `admin@nursery.com;manager@nursery.com`
5. Click **Save**.

Once configured, parents will see an **Add Absence** button next to each child on their **My Children** page.

## Disabling Parent Absence Requests

To disable parent absence requests, simply clear the **Absence Notification Emails** field and save. The absence button will no longer appear for parents.

## What Happens When a Parent Submits an Absence

* The absence is recorded in the system, just like staff-recorded absences on the register.
* An email notification is sent to all configured absence email addresses.
* The email includes the child's name, absence type, dates, and any notes the parent added.
* Parents cannot set the non-chargeable flag — this remains a staff/admin only action.

## Absence Types

Parents can select from the same absence types available to staff:

* **Holiday** — Planned time off
* **Illness** — Sickness absence
* **Other** — Any other reason