Petition · Department for Education
Require Local Authorities return children when original concerns no longer apply
Closed
78 signatures
What the petition asks
We want the Government to change the law so that children cannot remain in foster care when the original concerns that led to their removal have been proven to no longer apply.
Families across the UK are experiencing long delays, incomplete assessments, or outdated worries being repeatedly relied on even after risks have been addressed.
We ask for a statutory duty requiring Local Authorities and social workers to promptly re-assess family members, prioritise family care, and return children when it is safe and proportionate to do so.
We ask for a statutory duty requiring Local Authorities and social workers to promptly re-assess family members, prioritise family care, and return children when it is safe and proportionate to do so.
Timeline
| 16 Jan 2026 | Petition opened for signatures |
| 16 Jul 2026 | Closed to new signatures |
Key facts
Signatures
78
Status
Closed
Department
Department for Education
Opened
16 Jan 2026
Closed
16 Jul 2026
Follow this petition
Sign in to get an email when the government responds, a debate is scheduled or held, or the petition closes.
Source: the official petition page. Last checked 15 Aug 2026.