Family mediation is a process in which an independent, professionally trained mediator assists separating or separated couples work out arrangements for children and finances. Mediation can also be helpful when arrangements already in place may...
Removing a child from the care of their parents is one of the severe steps a local authority can take and they can only do so in specific circumstances.
A section 20 agreement relates to section 20 of the Children Act 1989. Under section 20 of the Children Act 1989, the local authority has a duty to provide accommodation for any child who needs it, including in circumstances where the people caring for the child are no longer able to provide them with suitable accommodation or when there is nobody with parental responsibility for the child. The local authority can also provide accommodation for children under section 20 of the Children Act 1989 in circumstances where the local authority consider there are welfare or safety concerns.
A section 20 agreement is a voluntary agreement between the local authority and parents for the child to be placed in the care of the local authority, for example in foster care. If the local authority has asked whether you will give your agreement under section 20 for your child to be placed in the care of the local authority, you should seek legal advice at the earliest opportunity. Call our specialist team on 0161 696 6193 or complete our online enquiry form.
