Glossary of terms.

Children Act 1989 power for local authorities to provide services to children 'in need'. Voluntary, supportive, no court involvement.

Voluntary accommodation by the local authority. You keep parental responsibility and can in principle withdraw consent.

The legal threshold and duty to investigate where there is reasonable cause to suspect a child is suffering, or likely to suffer, significant harm.

A multi-agency meeting (often a phone call) to decide whether section 47 enquiries should start.

Multi-agency meeting deciding whether a child needs a Child Protection Plan.

A written multi-agency plan to reduce risk to a child. Categorised as Neglect, Physical, Emotional or Sexual.

The pre-proceedings letter and meeting stage, before the local authority issues care proceedings.

Emergency Protection Order — short, urgent removal order, normally up to 8 days.

Interim Care Order — gives the local authority shared parental responsibility during proceedings.

Final order under s.31 of the Children Act 1989. Lasts until age 18 unless discharged.

Authorises the local authority to place a child for adoption without parental consent.

An order giving a relative or carer enhanced parental responsibility, often used for kinship care.

A Cafcass officer appointed to represent the child's interests in court.

A lay supporter who can sit with you in court, take notes, and quietly offer advice — they do not normally have the right to speak.

Local Authority Designated Officer — handles allegations against people who work with children.

Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service. Represents children in family court proceedings in England.

A formal letter from the local authority warning that court proceedings are being considered, inviting you to a meeting with a solicitor.

The legal test the local authority must meet to obtain a care or supervision order — significant harm attributable to parental care.