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I think this is fairly common and very rare that the judge would decide in their favour - I think it would have to be very exceptional circumstances as you have had the child from birth - but still very worrying for you. It happened with ours too and our SW said that the birth parents need to feel they have tried everything they can and that it might be reassuring in the future to be able to tell the children that - and to reinforced that the ultimate decision was made by a judge (a very learned judge!) It didn’t take over as we were very busy with two very lively toddlers but at the final hearing the judge said “there isn’t a court in the land that wouldn’t make this order” and spent the rest of the time helping them understand and accept it

This is very common and when you search the archives you will find many posts like yours. It is incredibly stressful and worrying but in all likelihood nothing will come of it.

He has been with you for all his life, he is settled with you and you are parenting him. His birth parents have had a long time to make changes, but did not manage to do so. It would not be in his best interest (and that is what this is about) to be returned to them.

Like Safia, I would try to see their opposition as something positive. They love and want him, but can't care for him. That will be good to know for him later on. My children remember what happened to them and they still find it comforting that their birth family fought tooth and nail for them.

Thank you both so much. It reassures me and I agree it will be great for him when we are able to share his story xx