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Special Guardianship Orders (SGO)

What is a Special Guardianship Order?
A Special Guardianship Order (SGO) is a legal order made by the family court. It gives a child a safe, secure, and long-term home with someone in their wider family or close network. As a Special Guardian, the child will usually live with you until they are 18 and you will take on the main responsibility for their care and upbringing.
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When is a Special Guardianship Order used?

SGOs are often used when:

  • A child cannot live with their parents
  • The family wants to avoid adoption
  • It is important to keep the child connected to their family
Who can apply for an SGO?

You can apply if:

  • You are 18 or over
  • You already have a Child Arrangements Order (CAO) or residence order
  • You are a relative (grandparent, aunt, uncle, sibling) or step-parent and the child has lived with you for at least 1 year
  • You are a guardian appointed if a parent or special guardian dies
  • The child is in care and children’s services agree
  • You are a foster carer who has cared for the child for at least 1 year
  • The child has lived with you for 3 of the last 5 years

You can also apply if Children’s services consent (if the child is in care), or everyone with parental responsibility agrees. If none of the above apply, you can still ask the court for permission to apply.

How do I become a Special Guardian?
Find out about the different routes to Special Guardianship, what happens during the assessment process, and the legal support available before you apply.
Learn about the application process
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Understanding your role as a Special Guardian
As a Special Guardian, you'll have parental responsibility for a child, allowing you to make important decisions about their day-to-day care.
Learn more about parental responsibility
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Help and support for Special Guardians
You won't be left to manage on your own. Learn about the support available for Special Guardians, including allowances, training, education support and expert advice.
Discover the support on offer
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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Do I get financial support as a Special Guardian?

You may be able to receive a means-tested Special Guardianship allowance. This will depend on your financial circumstances, the child's needs and their legal status.

Can I still work with the child’s parents?

In most cases, yes. Parents usually retain parental responsibility, and maintaining positive relationships can help provide stability for the child, where it is safe and appropriate to do so.

Do I need a solicitor?

It's a good idea to get independent legal advice before applying. This can help you understand the process, your rights and any support available to you.

How long does the approval process take?

The assessment process usually takes around 12 weeks, although timescales can vary depending on the court process.

Will I get ongoing support?

Yes! Support may include financial help, training, therapy services, and practical advice, depending on your needs.

Can my support plan change?

Yes. Support plans are reviewed regularly and can be updated if circumstances change.

What if I'm finding things difficult?

You're not alone. If you need extra help, you can contact the Kinship Support Team at any time to discuss your situation and the support available.

Get in touch