Overview

This bill aims to simplify the process for kinship carers (relatives who care for a child) to gain parental responsibility. Currently, kinship carers must go to court; this bill allows them to obtain parental responsibility through a written agreement with the child's parents, avoiding costly and time-consuming court proceedings.

Description

The Kinship Carers (Parental Responsibility Agreements) Bill amends the Children Act 1989. It introduces a new section (4B) allowing relatives caring for a child to acquire parental responsibility via a written agreement with the child's parents. This agreement, also considered a "parental responsibility agreement," will be legally binding. Terminating the agreement requires a court order, initiated either by someone with parental responsibility or, with court permission, by the child (if deemed to have sufficient understanding).

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending. However, it is expected to reduce costs associated with court proceedings for kinship carers seeking parental responsibility. The exact savings are difficult to quantify without further analysis but the government is likely to see a reduction in legal fees and court administrative costs.

Groups Affected

• Kinship carers: This bill will make it easier and cheaper for them to gain parental responsibility, providing greater legal rights and authority to care for the child.
• Children in kinship care: The bill aims to improve their legal security and stability by giving their carers stronger legal standing.
• Parents of children in kinship care: They retain the ability to end the agreement through court action but will be required to actively participate in the process.
• Courts: The bill is likely to reduce the number of cases related to kinship care parental responsibility, thereby freeing up court resources.

Powered by nyModel