There have been several distressing stories recently concerning children being abused by their parents and in some cases, the children have died as a result of the treatment they have been subjected to.
In the tragic case of Star Hobson, who was abused and killed by her mother’s partner, the grandparents of Star had raised their concerns and reported the partner to social services. Unfortunately, social services did not keep her safe and Star suffered terrible abuse, which led to her death.
Grandparents reporting care concerns regarding their grandchildren
If you believe that your grandchildren are at immediate risk of child abuse and in need of protection then you should call the Police (999) immediately. On the other hand, if you feel that your grandchildren are at risk of abuse but not in imminent danger, you should call the Police on 101.
You may also decide that your concerns concerning the care of your grandchildren warrant you contacting your local children’s social care team. You’ll be asked for your details but can choose to withhold them if you prefer to remain anonymous.
You could also contact the NSPCC if you want to discuss your concerns and get advice.
Further, grandparents and other people with a genuine interest in the welfare of a child have rights and can apply to the Court, subject to permission being granted, if they feel that their concerns are not being looked into adequately by their local social care team. They can ask the Court to intervene and take action to keep children safe and a range of orders can be applied for including an order that the child lives with them.
If the Court is asked to determine any question with regard to the upbringing of a child the child’s welfare will be the Court’s paramount consideration.
If you can prove abuse then the Court will take your concerns seriously and in all cases, it will strive to keep children safe and protected from harm.
If you are a grandparent (or parent, carer or just someone close to the child) and are concerned about how your grandchildren are being cared for then you should take legal advice if you are not being listened to by social services. Legal advice will tell you what your rights are and what you can do to help your grandchildren.
How Nelsons can help
Melanie Bridgen is a Partner in our Family Law team, specialising in children law
At Nelsons, we can help you by evaluating your case and giving advice on the options available to you to keep the children safe and the next steps to be taken. If instructed we can act on your behalf and progress your case.
We have a dedicated team of experts who are able to give specialist advice and representation. If you need advice on child contact or any other family law-related matters, please contact Melanie or another member of the team in Derby, Nottingham, or Leicester on 0800 024 1976 or via our online form.
Melanie or the team will be happy to discuss your circumstances in more detail and give you more information about the services that our family law team can provide along with details of our hourly rates and fixed fee services.
Contact us