Special Guardianship Financial Support

Special Guardianship Orders (SGOs) offer a legal framework for children who cannot live with their birth parents to be cared for within a permanent family environment. While providing stability, special guardianship also raises important financial considerations for special guardians.

Financial Assessments and Allowances

Local authorities have a duty to assess the financial needs of prospective special guardians. This assessment considers various factors, including the child’s needs, the guardian’s resources, and the guardian’s capacity to provide for the child. The outcome of this assessment determines whether a financial allowance is payable.

Special guardianship allowances are discretionary and not automatically granted. The level of allowance, if awarded, varies significantly between local authorities. Many factors influence this, including:

The child’s needs: Children with disabilities or complex needs may warrant higher allowances.
The special guardian’s income: The local authority will assess the guardian’s ability to financially support the child.
The nature of the placement: Allowances might be higher if the special guardian previously fostered the child or if the order is needed to keep siblings together.

Types of Financial Support

Beyond a regular allowance, special guardians might be eligible for other forms of financial assistance:

Legal aid: Assistance with legal costs associated with obtaining the SGO.
Start-up costs: A one-off payment to help with initial expenses such as furniture or clothing.
Specific needs: Funding for specific items or activities, such as therapy, respite care, or educational resources.

Other Benefits and Entitlements

Special guardians can also access mainstream benefits such as Child Benefit and Child Tax Credit (if eligible). It’s crucial to explore all available benefits to maximize financial support.

Challenges and Considerations

Navigating the special guardianship finance system can be challenging. Potential special guardians should:

Seek legal advice: A solicitor specializing in family law can advise on the legal aspects of SGOs and financial entitlements.
Request a thorough financial assessment: Ensure the local authority conducts a comprehensive assessment that accurately reflects the child’s and guardian’s needs.
Understand the allowance policy: Familiarize themselves with the local authority’s specific policy on special guardianship allowances.
Be prepared to appeal: If dissatisfied with the assessment outcome, guardians have the right to appeal the decision.

Conclusion

While financial support is not guaranteed, understanding the assessment process, available allowances, and potential entitlements is crucial for prospective special guardians. Proactive engagement with the local authority and seeking professional advice can help ensure the child’s financial needs are met and the guardianship arrangement is sustainable.