DISCLAIMER:
This duty is currently under review and has not yet been formally signed off by the relevant professional association. The information provided is for reference only and should not be treated as final or authoritative guidance. Please verify any decisions against approved sources or seek professional advice. Updates will be published once sign-off is complete.
Simple terms explainer
Councils can apply to the court for a Permanence Order when a child needs long-term care away from their birth family. This legal order lets the council decide where the child lives and can transfer some or all parental rights and responsibilities to the council, the child’s carers, or the parents. If the order includes Authority to Adopt, it also allows the council to arrange for the child to be adopted.
Legal status
Discretionary
Duty category
Children and family services
Business and legal
Duty type
Compliance
Social determinant of health
Social and community context
Emerging policy and legislation
1
National bodies with shared interest
Social Work Scotland
Scottish Social Services Council (SSSC)
Care Inspectorate
Standards and Frameworks
2