Securing a temporary arrangement for a child due to Mother’s mental health difficulties

Marie acts for a Mother who has mental health difficulties and a child who is subject to a Child Protection Plan with Children’s Services. Marie’s client has also had a child adopted previously after a final care and placement order was made. However, she has done very well with this child. These proceedings relate to private law proceedings for a Child Arrangements Order after an application was made by the Father.

Despite her client’s difficulties, Marie was able to support her through the court process and the parties reached agreement for the child to stay temporarily with the Father whilst the Mother is experiencing mental health difficulties. When she is in a position to care for the child again, the child will be returned to live with her. The court approved this temporary agreement at the FHDrA.

The court ordered the Local Authority who has the Child Protection Plan to file a s.7 report detailing all relevant information. The case is listed for further directions after then.