Information and advice for special guardians
Practical guides and expert support for special guardians and anyone who wants to be one.
From the team at Buckinghamshire Council.
Learn about the Guardians’ Guide and support you can access
Get help and advice online
-
Becoming a guardian
Considering becoming a special guardian? Here's what it means and what to expect from the assessment process.
-
Starting out as a guardian
Just starting your guardianship? These are the essentials based on the experience of other guardians.
-
Life as a guardian
Do you have specific questions or concerns? Explore guides on common topics and get practical advice that you can use straight away.
Guardian guides
Need answers to specific questions or concerns? Learn about common guardianship topics and how to get practical support.
Behaviour
See common behaviours we support, understand a child’s behaviour, and see what support you can get.
Contact with family
Plan and manage contact time with family, how a review works and knowing your rights.
Money
Available financial and housing support, using your support plan and dealing with money worries.
Education
Choosing schools and childcare, understanding Pupil Premium Plus, and Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP).
Support for you
How to handle feeling isolated, manage changing relationships and find support groups.
Health
Find health and disabilities support, advice on poor health and death, and mental health treatment and support.
Your rights
Issues with family, digital and social media contact, and using your support plan.
Caring for a child
Supporting a child with trauma, caring for a baby or young child, and the stages of child development.
Get support from our team
Buckinghamshire Council runs a free, dedicated support service used by hundreds of guardians every year. Contact us with any questions, no matter how big or small. No judgement. If it matters to you, it matters to us.