Special Guardianship: What Is It & How To Apply

Summary

Applying for special guardianship is a permanent and life-changing decision, but one that can be rewarding for both you and a child or young person. By being accepted as a special guardian, you can provide the right care and love for a child, where they might not have been receiving it by living with their biological parents. In this article, we will cover what it means to be a special guardian, including what you would be responsible for; why you should apply if it is right for you and the child; and how to make an application. A special guardian is someone who is appointed to take long-term responsibility for the upbringing, care, and welfare of a child. The person who is appointed and with whom the child lives is the special guardian. A special guardianship order is given where a family court legally places a child in long-term care for someone other than their parent/s. The order is given to provide a more permanent and secure arrangement for a child compared to other types of care, such as foster care. A special guardianship order gives the person with whom the child is appointed to live with the legal right and responsibility to care for the child, similar to a parent. The.

Key information

• You are a foster carer and you have been the child's foster carer for a year before applying.
• The child is living with you and has lived with you for three out of the last five years, without a break longer than three months
• You are already a child’s legal guardian
• If the child is in local authority care, and they agree to your application
• If you already have an existing court order about the child's living arrangements
• If you're related to the child and they've lived with you for a year before applying
• If the court permits you to apply
• Mediation assistance with establishing new or existing contact arrangements
• Counselling and advice providing guidance and information
• Support groups access to groups offering support and shared experiences
• Therapy services to address specific therapeutic needs
• Training for the special guardian

Practical guidance

• Source: Special Guardianship: What Is It & How To Apply

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