What is a Special Guardianship Order?

A Special Guardianship Order (SGO) is an alternative to an Adoption Order. It is similar to an Adoption Order in that it gives the person caring for you Parental Responsibility, and they will be able to make day to day decisions about most things in your life.

It is different from an Adoption Order in that it only lasts until you are 18 and your parents will still be your legal parents, who can be consulted about some important decisions such as changing your name or adoption.

If I am under a Special Guardianship Order will I be subject to a Care Order?

No. If a Special Guardianship Order is made you will not be in care although the local authority who held the Care Order may continue to give you some support.