Apply to be a special guardian
Who can apply
You can apply if:
- you are the child's guardian
- you are a relative and the child has lived with you for at least the last year before applying
- you are a foster carer with us and the child has lived with you for at least the last year before applying
- the child has lived with you for at least 3 years in the last 5, including the last 3 months before applying
- you have a child arrangements order for the child, or all those with a residence order agree you can apply
- the child is in the care of a local authority and they agree you can apply
- the court agrees you can apply
You must be over 18.
You can apply on your own or as a couple, whether you are married or in a civil partnership or not.
The child’s birth parents cannot apply.
How to apply
If the child is in the local authority's care, ask the child's social worker about applying.
If the child isn't in local authority care and there's no social care involvement, you will have to make a private law application. Contact us for more information.
If you're thinking about applying, you must contact us at least 12 weeks before applying to the court.
Contact the Assessment Team
Telephone: 03330 322 947
Email: SGO.CPDuty@essex.gov.uk
If the child is in the care of a different local authority, like Southend or Thurrock, you should contact them about applying.
More information
GOV.UK has more information about applying to be a special guardian.