Getting an SGO removed

[KLJ4D6]

Hi all, I am desperately looking for some help/advice regarding getting an SGO removed. My teenage daughter has been with her grandparents under an SGO for some time now, but has reported abuse from them which I do believe to be true. So much so that children’s services advised me to keep her in my care due to something happening prior to last contact. She often stays with me at my house with my other child, and is desperate to stay.
It’s gotten to the point that she is so scared to go to school in case she is taken back before children’s services can take action. We are still waiting to see what they will say but it has been radio silence from all parties.
Could anyone advise the cost and likelihood of it being dissolved if it’s what the child wants as well as the fact she has been exposed to abuse, drug use and proven lies on their part?

Also, I believe I need to ask the court’s permission to apply, how do I do this?

I hope this all makes sense, my brain is fried at the moment and I’m just trying to do what’s best for her.

[KLJ4D6]

Bump

[Suzie, FRG Adviser]

Dear KLJ4D6

Welcome to the parents’ discussion forum and thank you for posting.

My name is Suzie, online adviser at Family Rights Group. I will be responding to your post today.

In your post you say you wish to remove the special guardianship order (SGO) in re-spect of your teenage daughter (you do not say her age). Your daughter is in your care now at children’s services’ request because of issues the special guardians. They would have had to agree to her being in your care as they have parental responsibility and children’s services cannot remove her from their care without their agreement or a court order. You say children’s services have made no further decisions regarding your daughter.
Your daughter, you say wants to stay with you and depending on her age, children’s services should consider her wishes. The older children are the more weight is given to their views provided it fits with what is in their best interests.

The issues you mention in your post regarding what your daughter has experienced in the care of the special guardians would be important factors for the court to consider if you make an application

Permission is required before a parent applies to discharge a special guardianship or-der. You would apply for this at the same time as the application to discharge so if permission is granted you can continue with the case for discharge the SGO. You need to contact a family mediator to arrange the initial appointment to discuss your intentions with the special guardians. Here is information about family mediation

The fee is to apply is in the region of £255 although it is possible to get help with the court fees if you are on state benefits or a low income. The court will be able to confirm this, or you can go to the court services website.

You may find it helpful to contact Child Law Advice on 0300 330 5480. Their website is HERE. This service advises on private law family matters in England where the person does not have solicitor. There is also support available from Support through Court Support through Court and web-based information for those representing themselves here HERE

I have also included a link to information HERE on our website about what special guardianship means for parents.

I hope you will find this information helpful.

Best wishes

Suzie