A Special Guardianship Order places your child with another person who is not their parent. This person then has to care for your child's needs and wellbeing. It also gives Parental Responsibility to the guardian without taking away your Parental Responsibility.
This is one of the ways that the relationship between the parents and the child can be maintained.
Why Has a Relative been Given a Special Guardianship Order?
There are a number of reasons why a relative could have special guardianship over your child. For example, they may want to take care of your child on a temporary basis, rather than something as permanent as adoption.
Before anyone can apply for a Special Guardianship Order for your child, they will need to give the Local Authority 3 months’ notice. The Local Authority will make a report with information about the child and what is within their best interests. This report must be completed and sent to the court for the Special Guardianship Order to be made.
If your child was considered old enough at the time, their wishes will be taken into consideration and they will be asked if they would want your relative as a special guardian. Although there is no set age as to who is “old enough” the Court will usually say a child is old enough to make this decision if they understand the idea of special guardianship.