Can social services take my child away?
27/07/2026
Social services cannot usually remove your child simply because a social worker asks.
They normally need:
- your agreement;
- emergency police powers;
- or an order from the Family Court.
What if they ask me to agree?
You may be asked to agree to your child being cared for under Section 20.
This is described as voluntary. You should understand:
- where your child will live;
- how long the arrangement may last;
- when you will see them;
- what needs to happen before they return.
Get legal advice before agreeing to anything you do not understand.
What happens in an emergency?
Police can protect a child for a short time if they believe the child is in immediate danger.
The local authority can also ask the court for an emergency or temporary order.
Speak to Jannine Jenkins
If you have received a Pre Proceedings Letter and you are a parent or have parental responsibility, you can usually get free legal advice through legal aid.
Contact Jannine Jenkins and the JR Levins family team today on 0151 480 5777 or email family@jrlevins.co.uk.
