Guardians are qualified Social Workers, registered and regulated by the Northern Ireland Social Care Council. They have substantial experience of childcare and court related work. A Guardian gets to know children and young people to gain an understanding of their circumstances to ensure that the court is informed of their wishes and feelings and to safeguard their best interests.
The Guardian undertakes relevant enquiries to inform their assessment which is independent of Health and Social Care Trusts. The Guardian provides a report for the court on the child or young person’s needs and best interests. The Court will make a decision based on all available information on the best interests of the child or young person. The Guardian’s role concludes with the final court decision.