Inquiries - CA 1989 s. 81
CA 1989 s. 81 allows inquiries to be held into matters related to the Children Act 1989, such as child protection failures or care home incidents.
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Text in force at .
Source: legislation.gov.uk — The National Archives (legislation.gov.uk), reproduced under licence Open Government Licence v3.0.
What it actually says
Section 81 of the Children Act 1989 is titled 'Inquiries'. It provides for the holding of inquiries into matters connected with the Act.
The specific powers, procedures, and who may order an inquiry are not detailed in this excerpt. The section is part of a group of provisions concerning inspection and oversight of children's services.
When it applies
- A child dies while in local authority care and an inquiry is demanded.
- A whistleblower reports systemic failures at a children's home.
- Concerns about a childminder's fitness lead to a formal inquiry.
What this section does not say
- The right to legal representation during an inquiry.
- The publication of inquiry findings.
- The timetable for completing an inquiry.
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This page reproduces the text of CA 1989 s. 81 in force at the date shown and explains it in general terms. It is not legal advice and takes no account of the circumstances of your case, which can change the answer completely. For a live dispute, for limitation periods, and before taking any step in court, consult a qualified lawyer in England and Wales.