Kinship care and support

An Order in Scotland, an option in England

Anyone presenting themselves as an alternative care provider to a child, is subjected to Social Services investigations and scrutiny. Local Authorities can vary wildly in their politics and standards which may consider the care provider's gender, age, pets, religious beliefs or lifestyle.

A better chance of success lies with arranging a family support group for the adult parents. The closest relatives take priority, followed by trustworthy friends, known for more than two years, all pledging to support the parents; not the child(ren)

Parenting assessments can include your kinship support group

If parents are deemed incapable or unfit to look after their own child, a close adult relative can apply to the Court for a Special Guardianship Order (SGO). They are an alternative to adoption than can be discharged, cancelled at a later date.