Feelings of fear and uncertainty are common when children are put into care. Both the parents and the child feel the hardship of being separated from each other, especially if the child is particularly young.
While this is understandably a difficult time for most, understanding the care system and the reasons for putting a child into care can help you to come to terms with the decision made.
How do Children End Up in Foster Care?
There are a number of reasons why social services would take a child into care.
Here are some of the most common reasons:
Abuse
Abuse can come in many different forms which could lead to a child being removed from their home.
Some of the different types of abuse include:
- Emotional abuse
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
Abandonment
In some rare cases, parents abandon their child with no explanation. This could be dropping their child round to a babysitter’s and never returning or leaving a child at home alone for extended periods of time.
Neglect
Like abuse, neglect can come in several forms. Examples of neglect include:
- Emotional neglect
- Neglecting their child of basic needs, e.g food, water etc
- Medical neglect
Incarceration
If parents or guardians are sentenced to time in prison and there is no one to look after the child, they will most likely be placed into care.
Illness
It is both mentally and physically demanding caring for a young child, which is why parents who suffer from severe mental or physical illness may find it too difficult to properly care for their child.
Whether or not the care is temporary or permanent will depend on the extent of the illness.
Death
If the parents or guardians have died and there is no one else to look after the child, the child will be placed into the care system.
Young Offender
If the child has committed a crime or had issues with law enforcement, they may be placed into remand fostering.
Richards & Lewis: Family Solicitors Near Me
If your child has recently been taken into care and you are unsure of your parental rights, at Richards & Lewis, we are here to help.
We know how challenging it can be for your child to be put into care, which is why we have an experienced team who can provide you with expert legal advice and guidance on making the most out of the new situation.
We are a reputable solicitors firm in Ebbw Vale and have a team of experienced local solicitors who are experienced in dealing with a range of issues including conveyancing, family law, wills and probate, divorce and more.
For additional information on the services we offer or to speak to a member of our friendly team, contact us here today.