What happens to the Kids? - Writers Forum

Annanan1 · 06-11-2008, 07:37 AM

I wonder if you can help me. I am writing a novel set in 1999 in which I have six kids who are orphaned when their parents are murdered. I have a couple of questions that I was wondering if you might be able to answer for me. Not sure whether to set it in UK or US yet so any comparions would be helpful.

They are aged 24, 20 16, 8 & 4 can you tell me if the elder siblings would realistically be allowed to look after and become guardians for the younger ones. If so what requirements would my social services department put on them legally? I have it in my novel that there are no other family members who are able to take on the kids and elder siblings do not want them top go into care.

Would they require constant supervision from Social Services or other agencies, what form would this likely take?

I would appreciate any help that you might be able to offer.

Ilasir Maroa · 06-11-2008, 12:22 PM

Certainly not constant supervision, but they would likely be assigned a case-worker for at least awhile. It is quite possible for the older siblings to take over guardianship, but they would have to prove their ability to support the group and handle children. The 20, 24 year-olds would not technically be orphans, and it is unlikely they would be living with the parents, though it is possible.