As a legal expert with a focus on family law, I often deal with cases involving the welfare of children. One of the most significant legal instruments in this area is a full care order, which is a court order that grants a local authority the power to make certain decisions about a child's upbringing. It's a complex and sensitive matter that requires a deep understanding of the legal framework and the best interests of the child.

### Introduction to Full Care Orders

A full care order, as stipulated under Section 31 of the Children Act 1989 in the UK, is a legal mechanism designed to ensure the safety and well-being of children who cannot be cared for by their parents. This order is issued by the court when it is determined that leaving the child in the care of the parents would be detrimental to the child's health or development.

### When is a Full Care Order Issued?

The court may issue a full care order under Section 31(1)(a) when it is satisfied that:

1. The child concerned is suffering, or is likely to suffer, significant harm.
2. The harm, or likelihood of harm, is attributable to the care given to the child, or likely to be given if the order were not made, not being what it would be reasonable to expect a parent to give to the child.
3. A full care order must be better for the child than any other less restrictive option.

### Shared Parental Responsibility

Despite the issuance of a full care order, it's important to note that parental responsibility is not entirely removed from the parents. Instead, it is shared between the parents and the local authority. This means that while the local authority has the power to make significant decisions regarding the child's welfare, the parents still retain certain rights and responsibilities.

### The Role of the Local Authority

Under a full care order, the local authority assumes a significant role in the child's life. They are responsible for:

1. Providing accommodation for the child.
2. Making decisions about the child's education, health, and other day-to-day matters.
3. Taking steps to safeguard and promote the child's welfare.

### Duration and Review of Full Care Orders

Full care orders are not permanent and can be reviewed by the court at any time. The court has the power to discharge the order, vary its terms, or extend its duration based on the child's best interests. The local authority also has a duty to continuously assess the child's circumstances and report back to the court.

### Impact on the Family

The issuance of a full care order can have profound implications for the family. It is a decision that is not taken lightly and is always a last resort when all other options to support the family have been exhausted. The process is designed to be transparent, with the voices of the child and the family being heard throughout.

### Conclusion

A full care order represents a critical intervention by the state to protect a child when the parents are unable to provide a safe and nurturing environment. It is a testament to the legal system's commitment to the welfare of children, ensuring that their rights and needs are paramount in all decisions.

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Section 31 of the Children Act 1989 -C Care Order. The court can create a care order under Section 31(1) (a) of the Children Act, placing a child in the care of a designated local authority, with parental responsibility being shared between the parents and the local authority.read more >>