What Are Your Rights in a Child Protection Case?

When social services become involved in your family’s life, it can be confusing, frightening and overwhelming — particularly if you feel judged or misunderstood. It’s essential to understand your rights during this process so you can participate fully, advocate for yourself and your children, and challenge decisions you disagree with.

Your Legal Rights:

Under the Children Act 1989, families have several clear entitlements when subject to child protection procedures:

• The right to be informed of any concerns: Local authorities must clearly explain concerns about a child’s safety or welfare.

• The right to attend key meetings: You can attend Child Protection Conferences, Core Groups and Child in Need meetings where decisions about your child’s welfare are made.

• The right to an advocate: You can request independent advocacy to help you express your views and understand the process.

• The right to legal advice: Legal Aid is often available to parents involved in care proceedings.

• The right to request access to records: Under Data Protection legislation (GDPR), you can request personal information held about you.

• The right to complain: You can formally complain about social services’ conduct or decisions if you feel treated unfairly.

Source: Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023): https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/working-together-to-safeguard-children–2

At Prevalent Care, our independent advocates help families understand these rights, accompany them to meetings, and support them in making their voices heard.