Policing.uk

Warrant to Search for Children at Risk

Children Act 1989, s.48

  • Warrant: Yes
  • Force: No
  • Notice: No

A court may issue a warrant authorising a constable to assist a local authority in gaining access to a child in respect of whom an emergency protection order has been made. The constable may be accompanied by a doctor, nurse, or health visitor. The warrant may authorise the use of reasonable force.

Conditions

  • An emergency protection order must have been made under s.44 Children Act 1989
  • The applicant (usually local authority) has been refused access or is likely to be refused
  • Court must be satisfied that the child is likely to suffer significant harm

Limitations

  • The constable assists the local authority: the lead responsibility is with children's services
  • Reasonable force only
  • Any action taken must be in the best interests of the child

Last updated 24 September 2026