Special Guardianship Orders (SGOs) are vital legal tools in the realm of child welfare, designed to provide children with stable and secure family environments without severing their ties to their birth families. Introduced to fill the gap between full adoption and child arrangement orders, SGOs offer a balanced approach that prioritises the child’s long-term stability while maintaining their biological connections.
Key Features of Special Guardianship Orders
SGOs grant one or more individuals the status of a 'special guardian', which comes with parental responsibility for a child. Unlike adoption, this does not remove the parental rights of the child's birth parents, but rather, it allows the special guardian to make crucial decisions about the child’s life, effectively prioritising their welfare in a stable family setting.
Ideal Candidates for Special Guardianship
Typically, SGOs are suited for children who:
- Reside with Extended Family: Such as grandparents or other relatives who can provide a nurturing home.
- Need Minimal Parental Disruption: Where ongoing conflicts between birth parents can negatively impact the child’s upbringing.
- Require Long-term Support: Enabling both the child and the guardians to receive necessary assistance from local authorities.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility to apply for an SGO is notably specific, targeting those who have already established a significant and stable relationship with the child:
- Guardians or individuals named in child arrangements orders.
- Relatives or foster carers who have lived with the child for at least one year.
- Others who have been granted permission by the court.
Conclusion
Special Guardianship Orders represent a compassionate approach to child welfare, allowing children to grow within their family circles, supported by guardians who can provide a loving, stable home. By enabling children to maintain connections with their birth parents while securing their upbringing, SGOs fulfil a unique and crucial role in the child welfare system.
Contact our family law solicitors
For legal advice on special guardianship orders, please get in touch with our family team.
- Telephone: 03300250176
- Email: info@housingandproperty.co.uk