Special Guardianship Orders Explained
From the Family Law Team at Phillips Solicitors
A Special Guardianship Order, known as an SGO, is a long-term order that gives a carer enhanced parental responsibility for a child. SGOs are often considered in care proceedings where a child cannot live safely with a parent but may be able to live with a family member, connected person or foster carer.
Who can be considered
Grandparents, aunts, uncles, adult siblings, family friends or foster carers may sometimes be considered. The proposed special guardian will usually need to be assessed. It is important for potential carers to come forward early because assessments can take time and court timetables are often short.
What assessment involves
Assessment may consider the relationship with the child, parenting ability, home circumstances, health, finances, safeguarding history, support network and ability to manage contact with parents. It may feel intrusive, but it is intended to assess whether the arrangement can meet the child’s needs long term.
Support and contact
Prospective special guardians should ask about support planning, financial support, therapeutic needs, education, contact arrangements and practical responsibilities. They should understand the seriousness of the order before agreeing to be assessed or before supporting a final plan. It will likely mean that you agree to care for the child until they reach adulthood.
Conclusion
These orders are serious, but parents and family members should not assume that the process is impossible to understand. Clear advice can help you focus on what is urgent, what evidence is needed and what steps may help before the next decision is made, and whether an SGO might be the best possible outcome.
How Phillips Solicitors can help
Phillips Solicitors can advise parents and family members involved with Social Services, PLO meetings, care proceedings and related public law children matters. We can explain the process, help you prepare for meetings or hearings, consider the local authority’s concerns and represent you where appropriate.
Contact the Family Department as soon as possible if you would like more information about Special Guardianship Orders.
You can contact us online or call 01623 658556 (option 2).
This article is general information only and is not legal advice on any individual case. The correct advice will depend on the documents, facts, urgency, funding position and the stage reached in the social services or court process.