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BLACKBURN WITH DARWEN BOROUGH COUNCIL
CHILDREN’S SERVICES
SPECIAL GURDIANSHIP ORDER REPORT
SECTION 14A [8] ADOPTION AND CHILDREN ACT 2002
IN RESPECT OF:
John Bloggs
NAME:
DATE OF BIRTH:
15th April 1997
Report prepared by:
Date of Report:
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1. IN RESPECT OF THE CHILD
a. Name, sex, date and place of birth and address including
local authority area.
John Bloggs is a male child born on the 15th April 1997 at Blackburn
Royal Hospital this is within the Borough of Lancashire.
b. A photograph and physical description.
John Bloggs is 11 years old and of average height and weight for his
age. He has short brown hair and brown eyes. John has a lovely smile
and is a very attractive young person.
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c. Nationality [and immigration status where appropriate].
John is of British origin.
d. Racial origin and cultural and linguistic background.
John is of white British origin; he speaks English fluently which is his
first language.
e. Religious persuasion [including details of baptism [including
details of baptism, confirmation or equivalent ceremonies].
John has not been christened and does not follow any specific
religious faith.
f. Details of any siblings including their dates of birth.
John is the only child of Claire Coombs and Joe Bloggs. John has
three younger half siblings: Jill Best: Date of Birth: 10/09/2001,
Jerry Best: Date of birth: 15/01/2003 and Jamima Best: Date of
Birth: 10/12/2005.
g. The extent of the child’s contact with his relatives and any
other person the Local Authority consider relevant.
John is currently having supervised contact with his siblings Jill,
Jerry and Jamima on a fortnightly basis. This is facilitated by the
Local Authority and takes place at Rhubarb Children’s Centre,
Blackburn for one hour.
John had activity based contact with his father Joe Bloggs on a
monthly basis which was facilitated by Hilary Smith at outside venues
for three hours. Joe Bloggs was arrested in February 2008 and is
remanded at Preston Prison. John is not having direct or indirect
contact with his mother, which is in keeping with his wishes and
feelings.
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h. Whether the child is or has been looked after by a Local
Authority or is or has been provided with accommodation by a
voluntary organisation and details [including dates] of placements
by the authority or organisation.
John is subject to an Interim Care Order Section 38 Children Act
1989.
i. Whether the prospective special guardian is a Local
Authority foster parent of the child.
Mr and Mrs Smith were approved as carers for John by Blackburn
with Darwen Fostering Panel on the 15th April 2007.
j. A description of the child’s personality, his social
development and his emotional and behavioural development and
any related needs.
John is an attractive and confident young person who is bright and
enjoys receiving positive praise. There are no major concerns in
respect of John’s emotional, behavioural or social development. Due
to John’s early childhood experiences he learnt to be compliant and
took on the care of his younger sibling. John consistently sought
attention and affection and this made him extremely vulnerable. John
has a need for emotional security and relinquished his role as carer
for his younger siblings in May 2007 when he moved to Mr and Mrs
Smith’s care feeling confident that their current carers would manage
their needs. John now has developed a clear understanding of
appropriate behaviours and is a considerate young person who gives
thought to the world around him. He is appropriately sociable and
aware of stranger danger.
On the 26th February 2007 Julie Brown Play Therapist completed a
therapeutic assessment in respect of John and his siblings. Ms
Brown’s view was that John needed to be placed separately from his
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siblings; preferably within his extended family as this was where his
loyalty and sense of identity lay.
On the 25th May 2007 John was placed with his paternal aunt and
uncle Mr and Mrs Smith following the completion of a Family and
Friends assessment being approved by Blackburn with Darwen
Fostering Panel. His siblings Jill, Jerry and Jamima remained
together with Local Authority foster carers.
On the 19th November 2007 an assessment of John and his sibling’s
current and future needs was concluded by Susan Black Play
Therapist. Ms Black recommended a further 20 week period of
therapeutic intervention for John which commenced in December
2007. On the 17th March 2008 John cancelled his play therapy
session. He had spoken to his aunt and uncle and wanted to end the
intervention despite it not being completed. Ms Black met with John
and his carers to ensure that therapy was ended appropriately.
John is very close to his siblings Jill, Jerry and Jamima and at times
can be quite motherly towards them; he has provided a lot of the care
for them when living at home; he does worry about them and needs to
know that they are ok. John is concerned about their needs being
met when they move to a permanent family and needs reassurance in
this area. John is able to express his thoughts, wishes and feelings in
a confident manner. John is meeting all his age appropriate
milestones, he is able to see to age appropriate self care needs and is
of an age whereby he is beginning to recognise how his appearance is
perceived by the outside world. John enjoys being clean and having
clean clothes. John is dependent on his carers and seeks and enjoys
positive appropriate affectionate relationships, he thrives from positive
interaction and stimulation and is a sociable child who seeks to learn
through inquiry and questions. John needs consistent care and
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affection to ensure he feels safe and secure. He needs adults who are
able to necessitate all his developmental needs.
John is a confident young person and is developing skills in
challenging adults, which is age appropriate and positive in ensuring
he is not totally compliant and develops into an independent
autonomous adult. John does not display challenging behaviour; no
concerns are reported regarding his behaviour within school or at
home. John is able to trust and confide in Mr and Mrs Smith and will
seek reassurance from them when needed. He can be demanding and
impatient at times however Mr and Mrs Smith recognise that this is
age appropriate behaviour and John responds to the boundaries in
place. He has made and kept close friends which has been promoted
by his aunt and uncle. He presents as a happy and content young
person.
John has developed a positive attachment to his aunt and uncle and
is a child who is now confident that his needs will be met by the
adults in his life.
k. Details of the child’s interests, likes and dislikes.
John enjoys participating in a number of activities which include
football, tennis, fishing and swimming. He enjoys playing on his x-
box and Nintendo Wii. John’s favourite T.V programme is the
Simpsons.
l. A health history and a description of the state of the child’s
health which shall include any treatment the child is receiving.
John was born by normal delivery on the 31st January 1997 at
Burnley General Hospital. He was discharged from hospital at 3 days
old. No health concerns were identified. John attended Accident and
Emergency on five occasions; on the 12.05.01 he attended due to a
laceration to his Left foot which occurred whilst playing, on 03.07.01
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he fell off a wall resulting in a laceration to his left eyelid, on 15.07.02
he tripped causing an injury to his head and on the 11.02.04 he was
involved in a road traffic accident. He attended the treatment clinic at
Bailey’s Health Centre on the 10.07.05 due to a laceration to his finger
and he attended accident and emergency on 21.07.05 due to banging
his head in school. John has witnessed parental substance misuse
and has a greater awareness of illicit drugs and paraphernalia than a
child of his years should have.
John appeared to be a healthy young boy when placed into foster care
on 25th June 2006. He had a Statutory Medical on the10th August
2006, his general appearance was clean and he was reported to be
happy, co-operative and appeared emotionally stable. John described
his mood as both happy and sad because he was away from his mum.
John’s vaccination status was up to date and his height and weight
were on the 50th centile. John had a vision test on 5th November 2002
no vision difficulties were identified. He had a hearing test on 17th
June 2006 which highlighted an air-bone gap in his right ear a
referral was made to the audiology department. John is diagnosed
with Asthma. He had dental caries and appropriate dental treatment
was sought by his carers. He had a few healed scars on his hand, legs
and back of varying ages.
Dr Ian Pitt Consultant Paediatrician undertook a paediatric
assessment on the 14th February 2007. His report concluded that
John was generally a physically healthy young boy, his vaccinations
were up to date and his height and weight were satisfactory for his age
both on the 25th centile, he was thriving and there was no significant
physical health needs. John’s medical health records noted an
excessive number of attendances at the Accident and Emergency
department with minor injuries. In addition significant injuries were
noted whereby John sustained cuts to his arm due to falling over a
small wall and injuries suffered following a road traffic accident. None
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of the injuries pointed directly to any likelihood of non-accidental
causation.
On the 10th February 2005 Sandy Beech, School Nurse undertook an
annual Statutory Medical in respect of John. He weighed 32.2 kg and
his height was 141.1 cms. A vision test was undertaken which was
satisfactory. His health plan recommended that he visit his dentist as
the filling from his tooth had fallen out.
John has settled well in Mr and Mrs Smith’s care and benefits from
clear structured routines in respect of mealtimes and bed times. He
enjoys a wide variety of foods and will eat almost anything including
all types of vegetables, fruits and meats. In his current placement
John’s basic care needs are met and medical appointments have been
kept. John receives an adequate and nutritious diet. He is guided and
supported by his aunt and uncle regarding issues that affect his
health.
m. Names, addresses and types of nurseries or schools
attended with dates.
John did not attend any nursery provisions. He commenced his
primary education in September 2001 at St Peter and St Paul’s
Primary School, Smith Street, Blackburn where he attended until the
16th May 2006. He transferred to Beech Primary School, White Road,
Blackburn, on the 17th May 2006 until the 25th May 2007. On the 4th
June 2007 John transferred to Fanshaw Primary School, Green Road,
Preston.
n. The child’s educational attainments.
John commenced his primary education at St Peter and St Paul’s
Primary School. His attendance was sporadic and he was regularly
late. John lived with his paternal grandmother Mary Brown during
March - April 2006. During this period staff reported an improvement
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in his appearance, presentation and attendance at school. He
received additional support and formed friendships and relationships
with staff who expressed disappointment about him transferring
school as he was a valued member.
John transferred to Beech Primary School on the 17th May 2006
following a planned house move. He expressed unhappiness about
the change of school in particular about breaking links with his
friends. He did not settle in well and missed his previous school. He
attended 23 days out of a possible 38 between the 17th May 2006 and
14th July 2006. His lack of attendance would have impacted on him
forming friendships and settling into school.
John was placed with Local Authority foster cares on the 25th August
2006; he had expressed a wish to change school however with regular
attendance and punctuality he settled in well and reported that he
was happy. John had a good circle of friends in school and was able
to mix well with his peers. He was reported to be a polite young boy
who tried very hard to make progress. He loved to be praised and
could be relied upon to try very hard in the class situation.
John was placed with Mr and Mrs Smith on the 25th May 2007 he
transferred to Fanshaw Primary School in Preston. John settled well
into school his confidence increased and he had a wide vocabulary.
Concern was raised regarding his literacy and numeracy following
curriculum tests. He had difficulty in reading in particular
segmenting and blending and learnt many words by sight. John
struggled with his writing and was not always able to match sound to
letters. He was aware that he struggled academically with literacy and
numeracy and did not want attention drawn to this. It is necessary to
be positive with him to maintain self esteem. He does not like being in
the lower groups and tries hard to please. John concentrates and
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cooperates well with both children and adults. John receives
additional support regarding his literacy and numeracy.
An improvement has been noted in John’s academic ability and
emotional wellbeing whilst he has been in the care of Mr and Mrs
Smith. Mr and Mrs Smith support John with his home work and
reading and have remained in regular contact with school.
John requires support in school to achieve consistency with his ability
and opportunities to acquire skills and interests. He needs the adults
in his life to prioritise his educational needs whereby they are fully
appreciated and met and who also take account of his emotional
needs. He needs the opportunity to develop his own social networks
with age appropriate peers and develop a sense of self as a separate
and valued person.
o, p. Whether the child is subject to a statement of special
educational needs under the Education Act 1996[a]
John is not subject to a Statement of Special Educational Needs.
q. Details of any order made by a Court with respect to the
child under the Act including
i. The name of the court;
Blackburn County Court.
ii. The order made;
Interim Care Order 38 Children Act 1989
iii. The date on which the order was made; 25th August 2006 and renewed every 28 days thereafter.
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2. IN RESPCT OF THE CHILD’S FAMILY
a. Name, date and place of birth and address [and the date on
which their last address was confirmed] including local authority
area of each parent of the child and his siblings under the age of
18.
Claire Coombs formerly known as Claire Best was born on the 3rd
October 1978 in Southport, Lancashire. On the 7th April 2005 Ms.
Coombs confirmed that she was of no fixed abode and has been living
partly with her mother Julia Crown and father Peter Best in Bury
whilst trying to secure her own accommodation.
Joe Bloggs was born on the 10th June 1976 at South Ribble Hospital,
Preston Lancashire. Mr Bloggs is remanded at HMP Preston.
Jill Best is John’s sister. She was born at Blackburn Royal Hospital,
Haslingdon Road Blackburn on the 10th September 2001. Jill
currently resides with Local Authority foster carers Mr and Mrs Tate.
Jerry Best is John’s brother. He was born at Blackburn Royal
Hospital, Haslingdon Road Blackburn on the 15th January 2003.
Jerry currently resides with Local Authority foster carers Mr and Mrs
Tate.
Jamima Best is John’s sister. She was born at Blackburn Royal
Hospital, Haslingdon Road Blackburn on the 10th December 2005.
Jamima currently resides with Local Authority foster carers Mr and
Mrs Tate.
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b. A photograph, if available and physical description of each
parent.
Claire Coombs is approximately 5ft 4 inches tall and weighs 8 stones
11lbs. She is of slim build with wavy brown long hair and brown eyes.
Joe Bloggs is approximately 6ft tall and weighs 13 stones. He is of
medium build with brown hair and brown eyes.
c. Nationality [and immigration status where appropriate] of
each parent.
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Claire Coombs and Joe Bloggs are both British citizens born in
England.
d. Racial origin and cultural and linguistic background of each
parent.
Claire Coombs and Joe Bloggs are both of white British origin and
speak fluent English.
e. Whether the child’s parents were married to each other at
the time of the child’s birth or have subsequently married and
whether they are divorced or separated.
Claire Coombs and Joe Bloggs were not married to each other at the
time of John’s birth. They separated when John was aged 3 months.
f. Where the child’s parents have been previously married or
formed a civil partnership, the date of the marriage or civil
partnership.
Neither Claire Coombs nor Joe Bloggs had been previously married.
g. Where the child’s parents are not married, whether the
father has parental responsibility and, if so, how it was acquired.
Joe Bloggs does not have parental responsibility for John.
h. If the identity or whereabouts of the father are not known,
the information about him that has been ascertained and from
whom, and the steps that have been taken to establish paternity.
Not applicable.
i. The past and present relationship of the child’s parents.
Claire Coombs began a relationship with Joe Bloggs aged 12 years;
they met at Stafford House Children’s Home where they were both
placed. Mr Bloggs was moved to a different children’s home due to his
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behaviour however this did not affect their relationship. Ms Coombs
discharged herself from Local Authority care at the age of 16 and
moved in with her mother. Mr Bloggs was serving a custodial
sentence at the time. He moved in with Ms Coombs and her parents
upon his release. Ms Coombs became pregnant with John when she
was 16. At this point they secured their own rented property. They
separated on several occasions however always got back together. Ms
Coombs recalled them moving house on three occasions in one year.
Mr Bloggs was serving a custodial sentence at the time of John’s birth.
Upon his release they decided to give their relationship another go for
John. They ended their relationship when John was 3 months old
due to Joe Bloggs using illicit substance and alcohol excessively.
Ms Coombs and Mr Bloggs had an amicable relationship and at times
Mr Bloggs has over the years resided at Ms Coomb’s home for short
periods. Mr Bloggs’s contact with John during this time was
inconsistent and took place at Mr Bloggs’s availability. Over recent
months Ms Coombs and Mr Bloggs’s relationship has deteriorated to
the stage that they no longer communicate with one another.
j. Where available, the following information in respect of
each parent:
i. Health history, including details of any serious physical or
mental illness, any hereditary disease or disorder or disability.
Ms Coombs has no known serious physical or mental illness. She
appears to have lost weight over recent months. Mr Bloggs appears to
be healthy and has no known serious physical or mental illness.
ii. Religious persuasion.
Claire Coombs’ religion is Church of England, this is nominal. Joe
Bloggs’s religion is Roman Catholic, this is nominal.
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iii. Educational history.
Ms Coombs is unable to report a detailed history in respect of her
early family life. She was unable to recall her primary education. She
attended Beaconsfield Secondary School in Southport. She disliked
school whilst living with her parents and experienced bullying.
Mr Bloggs attended St Peter’s Primary School and St. Joseph’s
Secondary School; he transferred to Sacred Heart Secondary School
during his first year due to his behaviour. Despite not attaining any
qualifications, Mr Bloggs has reported that he has no problems with
literacy and numeracy. He commenced a full time college course to be
a motor mechanic at the age of sixteen but very soon became involved
with drug misuse and left formal education. Mr Bloggs reported that
he gained a NVQ Level 2 qualification in plastering whilst serving a
custodial sentence.
iv. Employment history.
Ms Coombs has not had any significant period of employment. She
had been employed as a barmaid several years ago. Mr Bloggs has
not had any significant period of employment.
v. Personality and interests.
Ms Coombs presents as a confident, assertive women she maintains
eye contact and has a warm sense of humour. She interacts
appropriately with both adults and children. Ms Coombs can become
defensive when challenged. She is vulnerable in that she has little
family support and she is unable to maintain appropriate social
networks. Ms Coombs has said her interests are the same as any
individual her age.
Mr Bloggs presents as a sociable and polite person. He is described
by his family to be a fun person to be around and has a good sense of
humour.
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k. In respect of the child’s siblings under the age of 18:
i. The person with whom the sibling is living.
John has three half siblings Jill Best, Jerry Best and Jamima Best
they are placed with local authority foster carers.
ii. Whether the sibling is looked after by a local authority or
provided with accommodation by a voluntary organisation
Jill, Jerry and Jamima are being looked after by Blackburn with
Darwen Local Authority.
iii. Details of any court order made with respect to the sibling
under the Act, including
Jill, Jerry and Jamima are subject to Interim Care Orders Section 38
Children Act 1989.
l. The name of the court, the order made and the date on
which the order was made.
The orders were granted on the 16th August 2006 at Blackburn
Magistrates Court and have subsequently been renewed every 28 days
thereafter at Blackburn County Court.
3. IN RESPECT OF THE WISHES AND FEELINGS OF THE
CHILD AND OTHERS
a. An assessment of the child’s wishes and feelings [considered
in light of his age and understanding] regarding:
i. Special guardianship;
John’s wishes and feelings have been regularly sought. He has stated
that he loves his aunt and uncle and is very clear that he wishes to
live with them on a long term basis. John gets on well with Mr
Smith’s family and transferred to a school closer to home when he was
placed in their care. He has formed and maintained friendships
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within the neighbourhood and at school. John is aware that his aunt
and uncle are applying for a Special Guardianship Order and he
understands that this will give them the authority to make decisions
about his day to day and future life arrangements. John is confident
that his aunt and uncle will continue to meet his overall needs and
act in his best interest promoting contact with significant members of
his family in line with his wishes and feelings.
ii. His religious and cultural upbringing; and
John has not been christened and does not follow any specific
religious faith. This is in keeping with John’s wishes and feelings.
John is aware of right and wrong and is a young person who is
conscious about the world around him. He demonstrates empathy
and understanding and appears to be a caring young boy. John is
living in the same cultural area in which his parents were born and
raised and will experience a cultural lifestyle similar to that in to
which he was born.
iii. Contact with his relatives and any other person the local
authority consider relevant, and the date on which the child’s
wishes and feelings were ascertained.
John has stated that he does not want direct contact with his mother.
John had direct activity based contact with his father on a monthly
basis which was supervised by Mrs Smith. Joe Bloggs was arrested in
February 2005 and is remanded at Preston Prison.
Contact with his siblings takes place on a fortnightly basis and is
supervised by Children’s Services personnel. John has expressed a
wish for this to continue. He understands that once an adoptive
placement is sought for his siblings contact will gradually be reduced.
He has expressed a strong wish to maintain direct contact with his
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siblings in the future and is in agreement with twice yearly direct
contact in addition to indirect contact twice yearly.
John has regular contact with his paternal grandmother Mary Brown
which he wishes to maintain. This is facilitated by Mr and Mrs Smith.
John had a one off contact session with his maternal grandparents
and aunt on the 20th February 2005. The contact session was
attended by Ms Smith and she has expressed that she would facilitate
contact in the future in line with John’s wishes and feelings.
John’s wishes and feelings were last ascertained on the 12th March
2005.
b. The wishes and feelings of each parent regarding;
i. Special guardianship
Claire Coombs is in agreement with John’s care plan and has
requested that his carers promote contact in line with John’s wishes
and feelings and contact continues to be reviewed on a regular basis.
Joe Bloggs is in agreement with a Special Guardianship Order being
granted in favour of Mr and Mrs Smith. He is happy with the care
John receives and is confident that Mr and Mrs Smith will continue to
meet John’s overall needs and act in his best interest.
ii. The child’s religious and cultural upbringing and;
Ms Coombs has stated that she would be happy with John following
the religion of his choice and does not want religious beliefs enforced
on him.
Mr Bloggs has stated that he would be happy with John following the
religion of his choice and does not want religious beliefs enforced on
him.
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iii. Contact with the child.
Ms Coombs would like direct contact with John to be reinstated and
his carers to promote contact. However she understands that at
present John does not want contact to take place. She respects his
wishes and feelings however would like contact to remain under
regular review.
Mr Bloggs was happy with the contact arrangements. He was
confident that Mr and Mrs Smith were committed to contact and
would maintain arrangements. Mr Bloggs wishes and feelings were
last ascertained on the 22nd February 2005. Since this date Mr Bloggs
has been arrested and is remanded in prison.
c. And the date on which the wishes and feelings of each
parent were last ascertained; and
Ms Coomb’s wishes and feelings were last ascertained on the 7th April
2005. Mr Bloggs’s wishes and feelings were last ascertained on the
22nd February 2005.
d. The wishes and feelings of any of the child’s relatives, or
any other person the local authority consider relevant regarding
the child and the dates on which those wishes and feelings were
last ascertained.
Mary Brown paternal grandmother is in agreement with Mr and Mrs
Smith being granted a Special Guardianship Order in respect of John.
Ms Brown would like to maintain regular contact with John. Ms
Brown’s feelings were last ascertained on the 22nd February 2005.
Philip Bloggs paternal uncle is in agreement with Mr and Mrs Smith
being granted a Special Guardianship Order in respect of John. Mr
Bloggs’s wishes and feelings were last ascertained on the 5th February
2005.
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4. IN RESPECT OF THE PROSPECTIVE SPECIAL GUARDIAN
OR, WHERE TWO OR MORE PERSONS ARE JOINTLY
PROSPECTIVE SPECIAL GUARDIANS, EACH OF THEM
a. Name, date and place of birth and address including local
authority area.
Hilary Smith was born on the 15th November 1977 at Royal Preston
Hospital, Preston Lancashire. Freddie Smith was born on the 16th
June 1972 at Blackburn Royal Hospital. They reside at 21 Brown
Road, Chorley . This is within the Lancashire Local Authority area.
b. A photograph and physical description.
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Hilary Smith has brown eyes with shoulder length brown hair and
blonde highlights. She is approximately 5ft 4 inches tall, she is of slim
build weighing 9 ½ stones.
Freddie Smith has blue eyes and short blonde hair. He is
approximately 5ft 10 inches tall he is of medium build weighing 12
stones.
c. Nationality [and immigration status where appropriate].
Mr and Mrs Smith are both British citizens born in England.
d. Racial origin and cultural and linguistic background.
Mr and Mrs Smith are both of white British origin and speak fluent
English.
e. If the prospective special guardian is:
i. Married, the date and place of marriage.
22nd June 2002 at Blackburn Registry office
ii. has formed a civil partnership, the date and place of
registration of the civil partnership or
Not applicable.
iii. has a partner, details of that relationship
Not applicable.
f. Details of any previous marriage, civil partnership or
relationship.
Mrs Smith’s first significant relationship was with Freddie Smith.
Freddie Smith began a relationship with Hilary Reed when he was 18
years old. Ms Reed had a daughter Susan aged approximately 8/9
months from a previous relationship and she was living with her
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mother in Preston at the time they met however Ms Reed originated
from Darwen.
Ms Reed secured her own tenancy in Chorley and Mr Smith moved in
with her 7 months into their relationship. Mr Smith described a good
relationship initially. During their relationship Ms Reed had three
children Ria (now 15 years old), Sharon (13 years old) and Joseph
(12/13 years old). Mr Smith was employed however recalled taking a
considerable amount of time off work due to Ms Reed leaving the
children in his care and not returning home for three to four days. He
was the main carer and found himself becoming quite isolated. He
was told by friends that Ms Reed was seeing other men.
Mr Smith separated from Ms Reed due to finding her with another
man and he moved in with his mother. The children remained in Ms
Reed’s care. She had informed Mr Smith that he was not the
biological father for any of her children.
Ms Reed moved to Bolton. Due to concerns regarding Ms Reed’s illicit
substance misuse and the children’s welfare Bolton Social Services
became involved and the children were removed from her care. Bolton
Social Services contacted Mr Smith’s sister Diane with regards to her
caring for the children. Mr Smith’s mother reported that Bolton Social
Services had contacted her whilst Mr Smith was residing with them
but Mr Smith was asleep at the time. They spoke to Mr Smith’s father
and asked if Mr Smith wanted to care for the children. Mr Smith’s
father requested DNA testing to be undertaken due to Ms Reed saying
that Mr Smith was not the father for the children and in light of her
having a number of affairs. Ms Reed would not agree to DNA testing.
Mr Smith described this period of his life as a nightmare. When he
separated from Ms Reed he was angry and felt deceived. Mr Smith
loved the children and had bought them up and cared for them as his
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own but due to the situation at the time he did not feel able to put
himself forward as a carer for them.
As part of the Family and Friends assessment Gill Green Social
Worker Fostering Team and Ellen Stone, Principal Social Worker
Fostering Team liaised with Lancashire Social Services Department
and the case files in respect of Ms Reed’s children were read. The
case files held no information about Freddie Smith or concerns
regarding his parenting of Ms Reed’s children.
g. Where the prospective special guardians wish to apply
jointly, the nature of their relationship and an assessment of the
stability of that relationship.
Hilary Smith met Freddie Smith when she was aged 19/20 and had a
brief relationship with him lasting for four months. Mr and Mrs Smith
met again at the age of 20/21 and he moved into the house which she
shared with her friend as they had a spare room. Their relationship
then resumed and they moved into a house together. They married on
the 21st June 2002 and Mrs Smith describes their relationship as
‘fantastic’ she states that they are ‘best friends’.
Mr Smith has given similar information to the above, he states that he
met Mrs Smith when he was 28 years old and they are ‘best friends’
they do not have rows just odd arguments. They continue to send text
messages to each other every day with endearments. When they do
argue Mr Smith states that he deals with this by removing himself
from the situation to defuse it. Mr and Mrs Smith have a strong and
loving relationship.
h. If the prospective special guardian is a member of a couple
and is applying alone for a special guardianship order, the reasons
for this.
Not applicable.
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i. Whether the prospective special guardian is a relative of the
child.
Hilary Smith is John’s paternal aunt.
j. Prospective special guardian’s relationship with the child;
Mr and Mrs Smith have a very loving and strong relationship with
John and there is definitely a clear positive attachment that has
developed between them. Mr and Mrs Smith support each other in
implementing boundaries. John has been observed to be comfortable
and confident in their care and will discuss his wishes, feelings and
any concerns he may have with them. John has told me that he
wants to stay with Mr and Mrs Smith and it is clear from
observational visits that John is settled and happy in their care. John
is confident that Mr and Mrs Smith will continue to meet his overall
needs.
k. A health history of the prospective special guardian
including details of any serious physical or mental illness; any
hereditary disease or disorder or disability.
Mr and Mrs Smith have no known serious physical or mental illness.
l. A description of how the prospect special guardian relates
to adults and children.
Mr and Mrs Smith display no difficulties in communicating with
adults or children. They have a number of close friends who they
relate well to. They have a close relationship with John’s siblings Jill,
Jerry and Jamima and Mr Smith’s nieces and nephews. It is
important to them that John experiences love, stability and the
capacity to play and be a child. Mr and Mrs Smith will seek advice
where relevant and draw on their own life experiences. They have
demonstrated a good understanding of John’s emotional needs in
relation to loss and separation with regards to his parents and
siblings and have managed this sensitively with him. They have
24
maintained good working relationships with all professionals involved.
Mr and Mrs Smith have worked with professionals in an open and
honest manner and have taken advice positively. They have
cooperated fully with the assessment process and made themselves
available for assessment sessions. They have always behaved and
acted in a professional manner during home visits and meetings. I
have had no concerns whatsoever with regards to their engagement
levels or interactions.
m. Previous experience of caring for children.
Mrs Smith reported that she regularly babysat for someone in her
locality from the age of 14 years on a weekly basis this involved five
children aged between 10 months to 10 years. Additionally Mr and
Mrs Smith have cared for John and his sibling Jerry prior to them
being removed from their mothers care. This included caring for John
on a frequent basis over weekends and caring for Jerry for a week
during November 2005 when Mrs Smith visited the family home to
find the children alone.
On fathers day in June 2006 Mr Smith received a card from Sharon
Grey [Ms Reed’s daughter detailed in section 4 paragraph f] asking
him to make contact with her. The following week Mr and Mrs Smith
met with Sharon and she moved in with them the following week.
Sharon had been adopted when she was younger however her
adoptive placement had broken down and she had alleged physical
abuse by her carers. Sharon moved to her maternal grandmother’s
care. Her grandmother had made an application for a Residence
Order in respect of her. Her grandmother reunited Sharon with Mr
and Mrs Smith.
Sharon settled in well with Mr and Mrs Smith and benefited from a
high standard of care. They made an application for a Residence
25
Order which was supported by Sharon’s maternal grandmother.
There was a court guardian appointed who assessed Sharon’s needs
and her placement with Mr and Mrs Smith. He supported Mr and Mrs
Smith’s application for a Residence Order and reported that Mr and
Mrs Smith meet Sharon’s overall needs and she was thriving in their
care. Mr and Mrs Smith had facilitated contact between Sharon her
grandmother and siblings. However due to the legal costs in obtaining
a Residence Order they were unable to see this through.
Sharon developed a good relationship with John via contact and
wanted him to be part of the family. Sharon adapted well to John’s
placement. There was a degree of sibling rivalry however this was age
appropriate. Mr and Mrs Smith showed a good understanding of both
Sharon’s and John’s needs and ensured that they were treated
equally. Sharon rebelled against boundaries and routines within
placement which was influenced on part by contact with her older
sibling. Sharon unexpectedly moved to her grandmother’s care on the
18th December 2007. Since moving to her grandmothers care school
have been in contact with Mr and Mrs Smith advising that Sharon has
missed a significant amount of schooling. Mr and Mrs Smith have not
had any contact with Sharon. They ensured that John was provided
with the appropriate reassurance he required and that he was
protected from experiencing emotional upset.
n. Parenting capacity, to include an assessment of the
prospective special guardian’s ability and suitability to bring up
the child.
Mr and Mrs Smith have been caring for John since the 25th May 2007.
They had regular contact with John prior to care proceedings being
initiated and John has a very high regard for them. Mr and Mrs
Smith maintained regular contact with John and his siblings whilst
they were place with Local Authority foster carers. Initially Mr and
Mrs Smith put themselves forward as carers for John and his siblings,
26
during the Family and Friends assessment, however Mr Smith felt
that they would not be able to mange the complex needs of all four
children and decided to put themselves forward as carers for John
they demonstrated their ability to place the children’s needs above
their own. Whilst John has been in Mr and Mrs Smith’s care he has
made significant progress. He has benefited from structure and
support in respect of his school work and has received very positive
reports. Mr and Mrs Smith have a very good understanding of his
emotional needs and have supported him through the feelings of loss
as a result of being separated from his siblings. This has allowed
John to settle into his placement and confide in his aunt and uncle
which John has struggled to do during his childhood. John is a much
happier child who is thriving, although he is behind in his school
work his improvements in all aspects of school life has come on leaps
and bounds. He is a much more confident boy who is confident that
Mr and Mrs Smith will continue to meet his overall needs. John is
always clean and appropriately dressed. He has joined a football team
and trains on a weekly basis in addition to swimming and fishing with
Mr Smith.
They ensure appropriate discipline and boundaries within the home to
which John has responded well. John displays a tough image at
times however will hug, kiss and cuddle appropriately when he greets
his carers after a period of separation. This is reciprocated by Mr and
Mrs Smith to ensure that John feels loved and cared for. Mrs Smith
will address him with enduring terms such as love and appropriate
interaction and warmth is observed. Mr and Mrs Smith ensure that
John attends all medical appointments and will seek advice when
needed; they ensure that he attends the dentist and provide John with
an adequate nutritious diet. The home conditions are well maintained
and John’s bedroom reflects his interests.
27
Mr and Mrs Smith are open to supervising contact between John and
significant family members.
Ms Smith receives support from her mother and Mr Smith’s extended
family visit frequently and offer support; they also have a close
network of friends who offer support.
o. Where there have been any past assessments as a
prospective adopter, foster parent or special guardian, relevant
details as appropriate.
Mr and Mrs Smith were approved as Family and Friends carers by
Blackburn with Darwen Fostering Panel on the 17th April 2007.
p. Detail of income and expenditure.
Mr Smith is in full time employment; Mrs Smith gave up her
employment to care for John when he was placed with them. She
returned to work in February 2005 however is working reduced hours
whilst John is at school. Mr and Mrs Smith manage their finances
well and have stated that they are not in debt. They have received
foster care payments for John whilst he has been in their care and
have reported that they would struggle financially if this ended due to
Mrs Smith reducing her working hours. Once Mr and Mrs Smith are
Special Guardians they will claim family tax credit and other benefits.
q. Information about the prospective special guardian’s home
and neighbourhood in which he lives.
Mr and Mrs Smith reside in a three bedroom rented property. The
bedrooms are a good size John has his own bedroom which has been
decorated to accommodate his interest in football, Mr and Mrs Smith
have their own bedroom and they have a spare room. The home is
close to the town centre and is close to John’s school, shops and the
local health centre. There are sufficient community resources within
the neighbourhood which Mr and Mrs Smith could readily and easily
access for support if required. The home has all the basic amenities
28
required to ensure that John needs can be met. The home is
decorated and maintained to a high standard.
r. Details of other members of the household and details of
any children of the prospective special guardian even if not
resident in the household.
Mr and Mrs Smith reside with John. Mr Smith’s daughter Sharon
resided with them until the 18th December 2007 when she moved to
her maternal grandmother’s care.
s. Details of the parents and any siblings of the prospective
special guardian, with their ages or ages at death.
Hilary Smith is the youngest daughter born to Mary Brown aged 51
and Derek Bloggs. Mrs Smith has little contact with her father who is
reported to be living in Chorley she has regular contact with her
mother. She has four siblings Kevin Bloggs aged 33 [Jill, Jerry and
Jamima’s father], Joe Bloggs aged 32 [John’s father], Anne Bloggs
aged 31 and Gary Bloggs aged 30. Mrs Smith’s relationship was
affected with her siblings when placed in Local Authority care as they
were separated and regular contact was not maintained. Mrs Smith
does not have contact with her sister Anne Bloggs. Contact with her
brothers Kevin and Gary Bloggs is infrequent, Mrs Smith has
maintained contact with Joe Bloggs to maintain contact between John
and his father.
Freddie Smith is the youngest child of Hilda Smith aged 60 and
Freddie Smith aged 61. Mr Smith was bought up by both his parents
and described his upbringing as ‘excellent’ and continues to be close
to both his parents. He has two sisters Shirley aged 42 and Deanna
aged 37. Mr Smith has stated that he is emotionally very close his
sisters and spent a lot of time with Shirley from the age of 14 and
states that he played a role in the upbringing of her five children.
29
t. The following information:
i. Religious persuasion;
Mrs Smith is Roman Catholic; this is nominal as she does not attend
Church. Mr Smith’s religion is Church of England; this is also
nominal as he does not attend Church. Though they do not attend
Church they have stated that they would take John if he wished to
attend.
ii. Educational history;
Mrs Smith attended St John’s Primary School and St. Jude’s
Secondary School in Chorley. She recalls enjoying school and
obtained grades C and D’s in her GCSE’s. Ms Smith has completed
the NVQ Level 1 and 2 in care.
Mr Smith attended St Mary’s Primary School and St Edward’s
Secondary School in Chorley. He described school as a positive
experience however left at the age of 15 without undertaking any
formal qualifications due to securing employment at Chorley
Transport.
iii. Employment history; and
Mrs Smith reported that she began working prior to leaving school as
a waitress in a public house. Following leaving school she worked as
a care assistant at Hobin Nursing Home, Chorley for a short time.
She then worked as a manager at Next before joining a Home Care
Agency working with elderly people in their own homes. She then
worked at Beechwood Nursing Home in Chorley as a Senior Care
Assistant before moving to her current employment with Homesteads
which is a charity organisation; her job involves caring for people with
learning difficulties in the community. Ms Smith gave up her
employment when John was placed with her in order to assist him
30
settling into the home. Mrs Smith returned to her employment with
Homesteads in February 2008 on a bank basis. Her working hours
are greatly reduced and she works during John’s school hours.
Mr Smith worked at Chorley Transport for a year at the age of 16.
This was followed by one year’s employment at Highgrove Paint Store.
His employment ended due to the firm closing down. In 1991 Mr
Smith joined the army forces Queens Lancashire Regiment as a foot
solider until 1994. He then joined Hoggs weaving mill where he
stayed for ten years and then spent eight months with Higgin’s News
packing and delivering. Mr Smith then worked for AB Building
Services until January 2005; he left as the job did not provide
stability. Mr Smith commenced his current employment in January
2005 with Thwaites as a Production Operative. He states that he is
not interested in any particular work role, he tends to ‘go where the
money is’ though he enjoys his current role and has enjoyed most of
his employments to date.
iv. Personality and interests;
Mrs Smith has a pleasant and outgoing personality and enjoys
socialising. She is a well organised person and takes pride in her
appearance and home which she maintains to a very high standard.
Mrs Smith presents as a confident, efficient and able young person
who has overcome the disadvantages of her early years. Mrs Smith
enjoys shopping, watching television and socialising.
Mr Smith also has a pleasant outgoing personality and a good sense of
humour. Mr Smith plays football and participates in matches every
weekend and training on Tuesdays. He enjoys fishing, watching
DVD’s and ‘chilling out’.
31
u. Details of any previous family and court proceedings in
which the prospective special guardian has been involved [which
has not been referred to elsewhere in this report].
Mr and Mrs Smith sought legal advice with regards to a Residence
Order in respect of Sharon but due to the financial costs they were
unable to pursue this.
v. A report of each of the interviews with the three persons
nominated by the prospective special guardian to provide
personal references for him.
As part of the family and friends assessments three references were
received by persons nominated by Mr and Mrs Smith.
Mrs Hogg was the officer in charge whilst Mrs Smith lived within a
residential unit and was subsequently her foster carer. Mrs Hogg
stated that Mrs Smith is a lovely person who she had felt would not fit
in to an independence unit so she had decided at the time that it was
appropriate to foster her herself as she was retiring from her post at
the residential unit. Mrs Hogg states that it would be in Mrs Smith’s
nature to put herself forward to care for her nephew and that she
would tend to take on the cares of the world. Mrs Hogg states that Mr
and Mrs Smith are both very caring people who she feels would put a
lot of effort into their caring role and make an excellent job of it.
Mrs Hilda Smith [Freddie Smith’s mother] confirmed that she had
known Mrs Smith for six years as partner/wife of her son. She stated
that she has contact with them on at least a weekly basis and that Mr
and Mrs Smith relate to children very well. She feels that Mr and Mrs
Smith will provide an excellent standard of care in a safe environment
and that the couple will work as part of a team.
She states that Mr Smith is a good, loving and caring son who is
always willing to help with anything and that he has a great
32
personality. She states that Mrs Smith is a pleasant and caring
person and who will do anything for anyone, she describes her as a
good outgoing girl and a loving and good hearted daughter in law.
Mrs Hilda Smith feels that Mr and Mrs Smith will cope very well if
they were under pressure and that they have a very good relationship.
She states that they would turn to Children’s Services Department as
well as herself, though they would try and sort things out for
themselves in the first instance. She stated that they are a loving and
caring couple who would be able to act as carers; she has no
reservations in respect of this.
Mr Bobby McKay has known Mr Smith for 25 years and Mrs Smith for
20 years and they are good friends of his. He states that they are both
caring people who get on well with children. He feels sure that they
will provide a good standard and will provide a safe, caring
environment. Mr McKay described Mr Smith as friendly, kind and
outgoing, Mrs Smith as caring and well liked. Regarding their
relationship Mr Smith states that as far as he is aware they are both
very happy and appear to work together as a team. He feels that they
would cope well under pressure and that they would turn to family
and friends for support if it was needed.
w. Whether the prospective special guardian is willing to follow
any wishes if the child or his parents in respect of the child’s
religious and cultural upbringing.
Mr and Mrs Smith have stated that although they do not attend
church they would take John if he wished to attend.
x. The views of other members of the prospective special
guardian’s household and wider family in relation to the proposed
special guardianship order.
33
John is placed within his paternal family and significant family
members are in agreement with Mr and Mrs Smith being granted a
Special Guardianship Order. Mr Smith’s family support his
application.
y. An assessment of the child’s current and future relationship
with the family of the prospective special guardian.
John’s placement enables him to maintain contact with his extended
maternal family. No members of the family have made contact with
Children’s Services with regards to any concerns. Freddie Smith’s
extended family members accept John as a family member. He has
regular contact with Mr Smith’s parents and siblings. He receives
presents and cards on his birthday and other festive/cultural
occasions. John has spoken positively about forming relationships
with Mr Smith’s extended family members. Mr Smith’s parents and
siblings support Mr Smith’s application for a Special Guardianship
Order and are available to offer advice and support when required.
z. Reasons for applying for a special guardianship order and
extent of understanding of the nature and effect of special
guardianship and whether the prospective special guardian has
discussed special guardianship with the child.
Mr and Mrs Smith have sought legal advice in respect of an
application for a Special Guardianship Order, they are aware of the
support which will be offered to them from the Local Authority and are
of the opinion that this will be the most effective way of providing
permanence for John. Mr and Mrs Smith are happy for John to
continue having contact with significant people in his life. They are
confident in their abilities to priorities John’s needs and end contact if
it is not in his best interest. They understand that John’s mother
does not lose parental responsibility and accept that she may in the
future be part of John’s life. Mr and Mrs Smith have discussed with
34
John the nature of the Special Guardianship Order and John is happy
for this to happen.
aa. Any hopes and expectations the prospective special
guardian has for the child’s future; and
Mr and Mrs Smith’s hopes for John are that he grows up feeling loved
and cared for. They want everything for John that they would want
for their own child, in terms of a good education and independence.
Mr and Mrs Smith feel that a good standard of education would lead
to enhanced future career prospects for John thus leading to
independence, a good standard of living, and quality of life which
provides him with opportunities and choices in life. They want him to
achieve success in his education and aspire to the best of his abilities
and enjoy his childhood/teenage years.
bb. The prospective special guardian’s wishes and feelings in
relation to contact between the child and his relatives or any
other person the local authority considers relevant.
Mr and Mrs Smith are happy to support contact between John and
his siblings Jill, Jerry and Jamima and his father Joe Bloggs. They
understand that John may request direct contact with his mother in
the future and will facilitate arrangements. Mr and Mrs Smith have
stated that they will supervise contact as they would not be happy for
it to be unsupervised. Mr and Mrs Smith believe that John should
maintain some level of contact with his extended family in keeping
with John’s wishes and feelings.
35
5. IN RESPECT OF THE LOCAL AUTHORITY WHICH
COMPLETED THE REPORT
a. Name and address.
The author of the report is (social worker) Child Care Social Worker in
this case and is based at Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council
Children’s Services, The Exchange, Ainsworth Street, Blackburn, BB1
6AD.
b. Details of any past involvement of the local authority with
the prospective special guardian, including any past preparation
for that person to be a local authority foster parent or adoptive
parent or special guardian.
The Local Authority first became involved with Mr and Mrs Smith on
the 1st September 2006 following their request to be assessed as
carers for John and his siblings. Blackburn with Darwen Children’s
Services did not have any involvement with them prior to this.
c. Where section 14A[7][a] of the Act applies and the
prospective special guardian lives in the area of another local
Authority, details of the local authority’s enquiries of that other
local authority about the prospective special guardian.
As part of the Family and Friends assessment consultation was
undertaken with health, education, Lancashire Social Services
Department and the Probation Department which was returned with
no knowledge of either Mr or Mrs Smith. Gill Green Social Worker
Fostering Team and Ellen Stone Principal Social Worker Fostering
Team liaised with Lancashire Social Services Department and the case
files in respect of Ms Reed’s children were read. The case files held no
information about Freddie Smith or concerns regarding his parenting
of Ms Reed’s children.
36
d. A summary of any special guardianship support services
provided by the authority for the prospective special guardian,
the child or the child’s parent and the period for which those
services are to be provided; and
The Local Authority has agreed that Mr and Mrs Smith will continue
to receive the current level of financial assistance minus child benefit
that they will claim once Special Guardianship is agreed for John.
The financial assistance will be reviewed on a yearly basis.
Sibling contact will continue to be facilitated and supervised by
Children’s Services until permanent placements are identified for his
siblings. Mr and Mrs Smith are open to facilitating contact
arrangements once John’s siblings are placed with adoptive parents.
Mr and Mrs Smith are confident in supervising contact between John
and his extended paternal and maternal family in keeping with John’s
wishes and feelings.
Mr and Mrs Smith have stated that they do not require any further
assistance. They understand that John may face difficulties in the
future with regards to his sibling’s future placements and have stated
that they would access therapeutic support via their General
Practitioner if required.
e. Where the local authority has decided not to provide special
guardianship support services, the reason why.
Not applicable.
37
6. A SUMMARY PREPARED BY THE MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
WHO PROVIDED THE INFROMATION REFERRED TO IN
PARAGRAPHS 1[l] AND 4[K]
On the 8th November 2006 Dr B.E.D. Bold completed the medical
report in respect of Mr Smith. He advised that Mr Smith is competent
to care for children and has experienced caring for children. He
reported that Mr Smith has no significant physical or emotional
problems.
On the 14th November 2006 Dr A.C. Franks completed the medical
report in respect of Mrs Smith. She stated, “I have no reason to
believe she [Mrs Smith] would not be suitable”. No significant
concerns have been expressed in respect of her physical or mental
health.
On the 18th January 2005 Sandy Beech School Nurse completed a
Statutory Medical in respect of John. No significant concerns have
been expressed in respect of his physical or mental health. John is up
to date with all his immunisations and attends dental appointments
regularly.
7. THE IMPLICATIONS OF THE MAKING OF A SPECIAL
GUARDIANSHIP ORDER FOR
a. The child.
John has been in the care of Mr and Mrs Smith since the 25th May
2007 he has developed a loving and strong positive attachment to
them and other family members and it is in line with John’s wishes
and feelings that he remains in the care of Mr and Mrs Smith. John
needs to live in a permanent family home whereby all his care and
developmental needs can be met; these include his health care,
emotional, social, educational, self care and identity needs which are
38
currently being met by Mr and Mrs Smith. It is important that John
is able to grow in an as ‘normal’ environment as possible. He is living
in an area where his parents were born and have grown up, his
cultural and identity needs are being met with his aunt and uncle.
The granting of a Special Guardianship Order will ensure that John is
not subject to procedures and stigma often associated to looked after
children within the care system. It is also important that decisions
made for John are made by people who know him best and who place
his needs as a priority above their own. The making of a Special
Guardianship Order will ensure that Mr and Mrs Smith are able to
make the most appropriate decisions for John in his best interests.
b. The child’s parent
Joe Bloggs is in agreement with a Special Guardianship Order being
granted in favour of Mr and Mrs Smith. He is happy with the care
John receives and is confident that Mr and Mrs Smith will continue to
meet John’s overall needs and act in his best interest. Ms Coombs is
also in agreement with Mr and Mrs Smith being granted a Special
Guardianship Order. The making of the Special Guardianship Order
will ensure that the parents do have some direct contact in keeping
with John’s wishes and feelings and are kept informed as to John’s
wellbeing as he grows and develops.
c. The prospective special guardian and his family.
Hilary and Freddie Smith will continue to be John’s main carers and
Special Guardian’s. They will continue to be responsible for ensuring
that John’s care and development needs are met and that he
continues to be protected from harm up until the age of majority and
beyond. Mr and Mrs Smith will be responsible in making all the
decisions associated to John’s future and consulting with John’s
parents in respect of any major decisions that need to be made. It is a
great responsibility becoming a Special Guardian for a child however
it will give Mr and Mrs Smith the right to bring up John as they see is
39
in John’s best interest without the procedures associated to children
in the looked after care system. It essentially means that Mr and Mrs
Smith will feel able to care for John within his birth family meeting his
identity needs and provide him with a permanent loving, secure and
stable home.
d. Any other person the local authority considers relevant.
Not applicable.
8. THE RELATIVE MERITS OF SPECIAL GURDIANSHIP AND
OTHER ORDERS WHICH MAY BE MADE UNDER THE ACT OR THE
ADOPTION AND CHILDREN ACT 2002 WITH AN ASSESSMENT OF
WHETHER THE CHILD’S LONG TERM INTERESTS WOULD BE
BEST MET BY A SPECIAL GUARDIANSHIP ORDER
A Special Guardianship Order made to Hilary and Freddie Smith in
respect of John Bloggs would provide John with a permanent
placement within his birth family until the age of majority and
beyond. It would ensure that John’s main caregivers and people who
know him best are in a position to make the decisions about his life
which would be in his best interests. It provides John with a
protective and safe placement whereby all his care and developmental
needs can be met; it enables his birth parents to remain in contact
and to be consulted in any major decisions. It provides Mr and Mrs
Smith with continued financial support from the Local Authority
however it takes away the stigma often associated to Looked After
Children in care. Mr and Mrs Smith have cared for John full time
since the 25th May 2007. John has a close and loving relationship
with them and other family members. Mr and Mrs Smith have
demonstrated that they are able to meet all of John’s care and
developmental needs and can protect him from harm. Mr and Mrs
Smith successfully completed a Family and Friends assessment in
respect of John and were approved as carers for him by Blackburn
40
with Darwen Local Authority Fostering Panel in April 2007. It is the
opinion of the Local Authority that it is in John’s long term best
interests that a Special Guardianship Order is made in favour of
Hilary and Freddie Smith in respect of John Bloggs.
9. A RECOMMENDATION AS TO WHETHER OR NOT THE
SPECIAL GUARDIANSHIP ORDER SOUGHT SHOULD BE MADE IN
RESPECT OF THE CHILD AND, IF NOT, ANY ALTERNATIVE
PROPOSAL IN RESPECT OF THE CHILD
Blackburn with Darwen Local Authority respectfully recommends that
a Special Guardianship Order be made in respect of John Bloggs.
10. A RECOMMENDATION AS TO WHAT ARRANGEMENTS
THERE SHOULD BE FOR CONTACT BETWEEN THE CHILD AND
HIS RELATIVE OR ANY PERSON THE LOCAL AUTHORITY
CONSIDER RELEVANT
Blackburn with Darwen Local Authority respectfully recommends that
contact between John Bloggs and his parents will be facilitated by Mr
and Mrs Smith in keeping with John’s wishes and feelings.
The Local Authority proposes that to maintain the attachment
between John and his siblings, Jill, Jerry and Jamima direct contact
will take place on at least two occasions each year; this will give John
the reassurance that his siblings are well and happy as well as
providing the opportunity to maintain sibling identity. This contact
will be positively promoted by the Local Authority when searching for
adopters for Jill, Jerry and Jamima. It is also proposed that John has
indirect contact with his siblings via the adoption mailbox system
twice a year using cards, letters and photographs. Mr or Mrs Smith to
be present at all contacts which they are open to.
41
42
Contact between John and his extended maternal and paternal family
will be facilitated by Mr and Mrs Smith in line with John’s wishes and
feelings. Mr and Mrs Smith have stated that they are committed to
maintaining contact.
Signed: …………………………………. Date:
Social Worker
Signed: …………………………………. Date:
Team Manager