21/10/2026
A Section 20 arrangement under the Children Act 1989 allows a local authority in England to provide accommodation for a child without obtaining a care order.
It may be considered where, for example:
• A parent is temporarily unable to provide suitable care
• A child has no suitable accommodation
• There are significant concerns about the child’s welfare
• A parent is in hospital, and no suitable alternative carer is available
A child accommodated under Section 20 becomes a looked-after child, but the local authority does not acquire parental responsibility as it would under a care order.
For younger children, Section 20 arrangements are generally based on informed parental consent. A person with parental responsibility can also object to the arrangement or, in appropriate circumstances, withdraw consent.
Since the implications can be significant, parents should understand what they are agreeing to and obtain legal advice if they are uncertain about the proposed arrangements.
Save this post and follow to stay informed 💡
