What is section 20 (s.20) Accommodation?

The local authority has a duty to provide appropriate accommodation to any child that requires such. This may be with a foster carer, or in certain cases, the local authority may approve a family member or family friend as a temporary foster carer.

Who can request or consent to section 20 (s.20) Accommodation?

Parents or someone who has Parental Responsibility can voluntarily place a child into local authority foster care. This occurs by way of a section 20 agreement that those holding parental responsibility are requested to sign.

What powers does a section 20 agreement give the Local Authority?

A section 20 agreement does not give the local authority parental responsibility for a child. However, the local authority may ask that the parent signs certain consent forms that will delegate certain decisions to the local authority – for example, decisions with regards to urgent medical treatment.

Can I terminate a section 20 agreement?

A parent/carer can request that a section 20 agreement is terminated with the return of their child to their care immediately. You do not need to agree any specific timescales for this.

You should always seek legal advice prior to signing such an agreement.

Disclaimer: The material contained in this fact sheet is for general guidance only. It is specific to the law of England and Wales and represents a brief outline of the law current as of the date of the fact sheet. It is not intended to constitute, or to be a substitute for, legal advice specific to your case.

Information up to date as at 10/3/23.