family getting legal advice

Better legal support for families taking on vulnerable children

The Ministry of Justice has announced that extra funding has been allocated to ensure that extended family members that are looking to provide long-term, stable care for vulnerable children are able to access free legal advice.

A funding increase of £6 million is aiming to support more than 2,000 people that are engaged in complex family cases, and will help those who are applying for Special Guardianship Orders. This sees a child that is in need of a loving home moved to live with extended family, friends of foster parents until they are 18 years of age.

Thanks to the new funding for legal advice, people who make applications for this form of care will gain access to legal aid funding in private law hearing, as well as representation on their cases. This goes a way to removing some of the burden that is placed on families during what can be a complicated and emotionally charged time.

Ministry of Justice

Lord Bellamy, Justice Minister, said:

“Providing a stable, loving home for a vulnerable child in need is an utterly selfless act and it is right that we provide families with the vital support they need – particularly in the most complex and emotive of cases.

“We are investing millions of pounds every year to make sure criminal and civil legal aid support can reach those who need it most.”

Previous to this update, legal aid was only accessible in cases where the local authority was involved in applying for a vulnerable child to be removed from their birth parents.

Public Sector Executive, Feb/March, Cover

PSE Feb/March, 23

Greater choice, greater results

Our February/March 2023 edition of PSE brings you expert comment and analysis on a range of key public sector topics, from EV infrastructure to Digital transformation and reducing carbon emissions. Learn how the UK Government is investing in highway and freight innovation or read Cllr Matthew Hicks discuss the first step towards an exciting future for Suffolk, alongside so much more…

Videos...

View all videos
#PSE365: Public Sector Decarbonisation

Be A Part Of It!

PSE365: Public Sector Decarbonisation Virtual Event | 21 Mar 2023

PSE has created a full calendar of events to address the most important issues that influence the delivery of public sector services. 

Over 365 days you’ll have the opportunity to hear from a range of highly motivating, informative and inspirational speakers. These speakers will equip you with knowledge and unique insight to enable you to overcome the challenges that you face.

Industry Survey

What are the biggest issues facing the Public Sector?

 Public Sector Executive is undergoing some in-depth research around the issues the Public Sector is facing and the importance of deploying and using new technology within Public Sector organisations. 

We are asking for your help to better understand how public sector organisations are utilising technology to support their digital strategy and your opinion on what the biggest issues facing the public sector are.

This survey only takes a couple of minutes to complete and to thank you for your time and for filling out our survey, we'll enter you into a prize draw to win a £50 Amazon voucher.

In order to assist public sector organisations with improving their existing technology estate, we hope to leverage our findings to share best practises and innovations across the public sector.

More articles...

View all