Here in the UK, it is the duty of social services to protect and safeguard any child whose safety or well-being is believed to be at risk. Following a referral, social workers will do everything in their power to ensure that the child is not at risk of harm.
Here at Richard & Lewis, we’ve outlined the main instances that may lead to a child being taken into care.
Understanding The Children’s Act
Introduced in 1989, the Children’s Act is an act of parliament which allocates duties to local authorities, courts, parents and other agencies in the United Kingdom to promote and safeguard the welfare of children in need. The act is designed to provide a range of services that enable suitable child protection and prevent any young person from living in an environment of abuse, neglect or exploitation.
The Children’s Act of 1989 aims to give care workers, law officials and courts the power to help vulnerable children and young people swiftly and effectively, operating on a ‘principle of no delay’. Additionally, courts will make no order or ruling unless they believe that it will create a better environment for the child.
When Are Children Taken Into Care?
Of course, the initial approach of social services will be to keep the child and parent together while providing the necessary support. However, if this is not possible or safe, due to instances of abuse or exploitation, the child may be removed from the home. The first port of call will be to place the child with a family member or friend. If this is not a viable option, the child will be removed from the family.
Below are a handful of circumstances that may lead to the removal of a child from their home environment.
Neglect
This is a common reason for the intervention of social services; if a child is emotionally, medically or physically neglected, their environment is deemed unfit. This includes the neglect of basic human rights such as food, water and cleanliness alongside the failure to care for a young person during times of need.
Abuse
Of course, if a child is abused in any way, it is vital that they are removed from the environment and protected from the abuser, be it a parent, family member or other. Instances of abuse include physical, emotional, sexual and substance-based.
Physical Or Mental Illness
If a parent or guardian is unable to look after their child due to illness, care services will intervene. These circumstances are, of course, unfortunate, but the safety of the child is the number one priority.
Abandonment
Finally, if a parent abandons their child, either by means of leaving them alone for long periods of time or never returning, social services will step in to care for the young person in question and provide them with a safe place to live.
Richard & Lewis Local Solicitors
In the instance that a child is taken into care, the process of intervention can be incredibly upsetting for those involved. For parents unsure of their legal rights, or the correct procedures to follow, the involvement of social services can be overwhelming and stressful.
If you’re seeking expert legal advice regarding child law, look no further than Richard & Lewis; we’re always happy to help.
Get in touch today to discuss your requirements.