Special Guardian Orders

Case study - Outlook Fostering successfully support a Foster Family to achieve Special Guardianship Orders on three children.

Outlook is used to receiving a variety of referrals from the many Local Authorities that use it services. However in 2008 there was one that was stood out from the rest. It was for a Birth Mother who had learning difficulties and her three children to be placed within a Foster placement. The identified task was that the Foster Carers provide care to the children, with Birth Mum alongside them.

The Court had directed that Mum could not appropriately care for her children. The Court had also directed that the children's attachment to Mum was such, that there needed to be a gradual program of separation undertaken by the Foster Carers.

This was a demanding and sensitive piece of work and one which the Foster Carers, with Outlook's support, were fully able to undertake. The Carers were sensitive to the needs of both Mum and the children, and worked extremely well with all parties involved. The process took nearly 12 months with the outcome being that Special Guardianship Orders were applied for by the Carers on all 3 children.

This was fully supported by the placing Local Authority and Outlook who recognized that this was the best possible outcome for all parties concerned, but especially the children.

Birth Mother moved out of the Carer's home to live locally, but to this day, remains an integral part of her children's lives, having regular contact in a relaxed and homely setting.

The Foster Carers include Mum as part of their extended family, and have helped her to secure local accommodation. With their support and encouragement, Mum is attending college and sees a brighter future ahead for herself. The three children are flourishing and are very settled within their new family.

Recently a Birthday Party was held for Mum in the Foster Carer's home. This enabled the children, Foster Carers and Parent to celebrate not only the Birthday but also the success of this innovative and unique situation.

Full Special Guardianship Orders are now in place on all 3 children.