Keyword

Emergency Protection Order

Under Section 42 Children and Young Persons Act 2010, the Department can apply for an Emergency Protection Order (EPO) where there is an immediate risk of Significant Harm to a child. Under the Order, the Department acquires Parental Responsibility for the child. 

Amongst other things, the EPO will enable a child to be removed to other accommodation or to remain in a place where he/she is being accommodated (e.g. a hospital or foster placement).

The Department must initiate a Section 46 Enquiry when a child has been made the subject of an EPO.