The Child, Z, Re

The Child, Z, Re

The threshold for public law intervention is crossed due to significant harm and risk of harm to Z from parental behaviour, domestic abuse, and neglect. The evidence demonstrates that A and B can provide safe, reparative parenting for Z, and risks can be managed through a Supervision Order. The making of a Special Guardianship Order and Supervision Order is necessary and proportionate to secure Z's welfare, and no further testing period is required given Z's established bond with A and B.

Parties
Applicant: Local Authority; Mother: X; Father: Y; Maternal Grandmother: A; Maternal Step Grandfather: B; Child: Z (through the Children’s Guardian)
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
15 December 2025
Procedural Posture
Children Protection/family Law / Final Hearing
Outcome
Special Guardianship Order in favour of A and B; Supervision Order to Local Authority for 12 months.
Legal Topics
Special Guardianship Order, Supervision Order, Threshold Criteria, Welfare Checklist, Domestic Abuse, Parental Responsibility, Care and Placement Orders
Family Law Child Protection Special Guardianship Order Supervision Order Threshold Criteria Welfare Checklist Domestic Abuse Parental Responsibility +1 more

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Parties

Local Authority

Applicant

X

Mother

Y

Father

A

Maternal Grandmother

B

Maternal Step Grandfather

Z (through the Children’s Guardian)

Child

Procedural Posture

Children Protection/family Law / Final Hearing

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether threshold for public law orders is met under s31(2) Children Act 1989
  2. 2 Whether Special Guardianship Order in favour of A and B is appropriate
  3. 3 Whether Supervision Order to Local Authority is necessary

Ratio Decidendi

The threshold for public law intervention is crossed due to significant harm and risk of harm to Z from parental behaviour, domestic abuse, and neglect. The evidence demonstrates that A and B can provide safe, reparative parenting for Z, and risks can be managed through a Supervision Order. The making of a Special Guardianship Order and Supervision Order is necessary and proportionate to secure Z's welfare, and no further testing period is required given Z's established bond with A and B.

Court Disposition

Special Guardianship Order in favour of A and B; Supervision Order to Local Authority for 12 months.

Orders

  • Special Guardianship Order in favour of A and B for Z
  • Supervision Order to Local Authority for 12 months