peration of the parents, Peter and Jane. If they do cooperate then it is a simple case of continuing the investigation [section 47]. However, if the parents are obstructive, then a CAO (Child Assessment Order) [section 43] needs to be obtained. This is an inquiry into the development and health of the child and may also give rise to the enforcement of an EPO. This has immediate effect and lasts for a period of up to seven days, it cannot be renewed for six months unless the court agrees section 43 (5). In accordance with section 43 (6)(a and b), David would then have to be produced to me to assess as I think fit, to comply with the court order. Section 43 (4) says that I cannot apply for a CAO if David is in an emergency situation. If the parents still continue to be obstructive, I would have to obtain police assistance [section 46] to secure Davids safety and subsequently be able to carry out my investigation without hindrance. Section 17 of PACE (police and criminal act) of 1984 gives the police the power to enter buildings if they believe that someone is at risk. A policeman, under section 46 of PACE, can also remove a child if he has reasonable cause to believe that the child is at risk of significant harm and take it to such a place where it is safe. This has a life span of seventy-two hours, after which an EPO can be obtained. In accordance with section 43 (9), I can only keep the child away from home if it necessary for the purposes of assessment. As another option, David could also be placed in the care of his grandparents, because under section 17 (1)(b), it is advised that I accommodate him with members of his family [section 23], also section 17 (3) provides the services necessary to care for David in that environment. If this is not possible due to some form of prevention, in section 20 (1) the local authority has a duty to accommodate David in a caring society, which is close to his home. Also the local authority have to gi...
