Skip to main content
Foster mother and two young girls laughing while squeezing lemons in the kitchen.

Special Guardianship Orders (SGO)

What is a Special Guardianship Order?

A Special Guardianship Order (SGO) is a legal order given by a family court, setting out who is going to be responsible for a child's care.

Under a SGO, the birth parents remain the child’s legal parents but share the parental responsibility with the nominated Special Guardian.

Woman with young girl in the kitchen measuring out pasta into a saucepan.

What support is available for Special Guardians in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole?

We have a specialised and experienced team who are dedicated to supporting Special Guardians in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

Hear from Caroline, a Special Guardianship Carer who has accessed our support:

Need support or want to find out more?

Please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team at: specialguardianshipsupport@bcpcouncil.gov.uk