Life is complicated. Sometimes, children or young people may not be able to return to live with their birth family. This can happen for many reasons, and doesn’t mean they will never return. But while they can’t, these young people need a carer who is understanding, open and can commit to supporting a child into adulthood.

This type of placement can last from 2 years all the way until a young person turns 18. Like all foster care, this type of care is both challenging and rewarding. By providing this type of care, you can help change a young person’s story for good.

When there is no longer a possibility that a child or young person will return to the care of their birth family, a guardianship order may be made in court. This order makes the guardian responsible for the ongoing health and wellbeing needs of the young person up to adulthood. It is also the guardian’s responsibility to ensure a continued and safe connection with the child’s birth family. 

Unlike adoption, the legal connection of a guardian to a child expires when they turn 18, and they maintain their legal connection to their birth family. However, the emotional connection you have with a young person as their guardian can last a lifetime.