Terminology causing confusion - SGO, CAO & SO

[JCU25]

We've received a negative recommendation on an SGO for a child but there are some things we are unable to understand.

The report says
"a standalone supervision order is not appropriate, however a six month supervision order to establish a legal framework for contact could be beneficial, alternatively a child in need plan could be considered.", and that

"The parents have been unable to place the needs of the child above their own, and therefore a Child Arrangement Order is not appropriate but that a CAO regarding contact could be deemed necessary by the court.

Could someone please clarify on what the difference between a standalone and a six month supervision order is and what the difference between a CAO and one relating to contact is?

[Suzie, FRG Adviser]

Dear Jcummins25

Thank you for your further post. I am sorry that you are finding it difficult to understand the terminology used in the assessment report. I will try to respond to each one:

A stand-alone supervision order is one where there is other order along side it. The suggestion of a six-month supervision order is to provide for support from the local authority to deal with contact arrangements. It could mean an order from the court about contact or a child in need plan under which children’s services would monitor and support contact for the children. Children's services do not share parental responsibility under a supervision order.

You can read an explanation about supervision orders from the A-Z of terms on our website here

The suggestion is that a child arrangement order where parental responsibility is shared equally with the parents would not be appropriate because of the concerns they are unable to put the children’s needs first and this may lead to conflict in the future. The idea of having a child arrangement order for contact is to ensure that contact is set out in the order to make it clear to the parents what contact they will have.

There are two types of child arrangements order that the court can make. Firstly, a child arrangement order which states who a child or children will live with. Secondly, a child arrangement order specifically relating to contact a parent or other person can have with a child or children.

You can read an explanation about child arrangement orders from the A-Z of terms on our website here

You may also find it helpful to read information on our website related to care and related proceedings here.

I hope this clarifies the terms for you, but should you wish to speak to an adviser, do telephone our free confidential advice line on 0808 801 0366. The advice line is open from 9.30am to 3pm Monday to Friday (except Bank Holidays)

Best wishes

Suzie