Advice please

[burnettelady75]

Hi my child has been is foster care for over 4 years now , child was moved because of relationship I used to be in and domestic abuse, I have moved areas , changed phone number, done journey to freedom course , tried to get order out but judge refused, at child’s last lac the spokesperson said that since child is sixteen next year then they should be asked if they want to return home to me and if child says yes then the process of child returning should start its now two months later the social worker still hasn’t asked my child and I’m still waiting for the minutes from the last lac which I still haven’t received I get unsupervised with my child I only see the social worker when she leaves and collects child , im in Northern Ireland incase that makes a difference any advice would be appreciated thank you

[Suzie, FRG Adviser]

Dear burnettelady75

Welcome to the forum and thank you for your post. My name is Suzie, I am an adviser and advocate at the Family Rights Group and will be responding to you today.

Unfortunately, we do not provide advice to families living in Northern Ireland because there are variations in law and local authority policy and procedures. However, general principles do stand. It would be a good idea to ask the local authority for a copy of their policy and procedure regarding reunification (you child coming back to live in your care). There will also be timescales around looked after reviews and when you should receive copies of minutes etc. As a staring point, I would suggest you write to the social worker, copying in their line manager to raise your concerns at the lack of progress following your child's looked after review. If you are not satisfied with their response you may wish to consider making a formal complaint.

I have added a link HERE that may be able to support your further. They provide the follow support:

‘The Centre works to protect the rights of all children living in NI particularly those who are the most disadvantaged, e.g. children with disabilities, special educational needs, mental ill health, homeless young people.
• We use the law to access critical services for children and young people and to challenge the discrimination and disadvantage suffered by many of our most vulnerable children.
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• We provide a free legal advice service and legal representation for children and young people.
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• We also work to create a society where all children can access all necessary services and opportunities they need to enjoy their childhood and realise their full potential.
• We are committed to giving a voice to the most disadvantaged and voiceless children.’

Best wishes, Suzie