Definition: An order is made by the court under section 31 Children Act 1989 which places a child in the care of the local authority, with parental responsibility being shared between the parents and the local authority. A care order lasts until a child turns 18, unless someone applies for it to end earlier under section 39 – discharge of a care order.

Category: CYP

Credit: Cardiff University

Source: https://sites.cardiff.ac.uk/childrens-social-care-law/glossary/