Care Orders

What are Care Orders?

A Care Order places your child in the care of a particular Local Authority. This gives the Local Authority Parental Responsibility.

How long does a Care Order last?

An Interim Care Order can last for the duration of the proceedings until a final Court hearing can take place.

A final Care Order can last until a child is 18 years old or unless the Court does one of the following;

• Makes a Child Arrangements Order to live with or Special Guardianship Order
• Ends (discharges) the Full Care Order when it decides it should not continue
• Makes a Supervision Order, or,
• Makes an Adoption Order

Will I still have my Parental Responsibility for my child?

If you already have Parental Responsibility for your child, it will be shared between yourself and the Local Authority. This will allow the Local Authority to make decisions about your child’s upbringing.

What if I don’t agree with the Local Authority?

If there is a dispute between you and the Local Authority over matters concerning your child’s upbringing, the Local Authority has the power to override your decisions.

If you feel the Local Authority is being unreasonable you can go the Courts and contest the issue.

Can Care Orders be discharged?

Yes. However, the parents need to demonstrate to the Court that there has been a significant change in their circumstances from when the Care Order was issued, ensuring the child’s safety and welfare.