This is a formal court order which allows parental responsibility and control over a child by individuals other than the parent. This could be a grandparent, close relative or a family friend.

A Special Guardianship Order is generally thought to be a stronger order than a Child Arrangement Order and the holder can make most decisions about a child's life without needing to refer back to the child's birth parents.

Special Guardianship Orders can also be applied for by kinship carers in private proceedings through the courts for children who have been living with them for 12 months or more.

In these cases the local authority need to be notified so a Special Guardianship assessment.

• Worcestershire guide to special guardianship orders (PDF)
• Policy for Special Guardianship Financial Support (PDF)