Lets a constable remove a child to suitable accommodation, or stop a child being removed from a hospital or other place, for up to 72 hours where the child would otherwise be likely to suffer significant harm.
Police protection · Children Act 1989, s.46Card 56 / 59
When you can use it
Say them out loud first. Then tap each one to check.
1The person is a child (under 18)
2s.46(1)The constable has reasonable cause to believe the child would otherwise be likely to suffer significant harm
3s.46(1)(a)Remove the child to suitable accommodation and keep them there, or
4s.46(1)(b)Take reasonable steps to prevent the child's removal from a hospital or other place where they are being accommodated
5s.46(5)After the designated officer's inquiry, release the child unless there is still reasonable cause to believe they would be likely to suffer significant harm if released
6s.46(6)No more than 72 hours in police protection
1. The person is a child (under 18) 2. The constable has reasonable cause to believe the child would otherwise be likely to suffer significant harm 3. Remove the child to suitable accommodation and keep them there, or 4. Take reasonable steps to prevent the child's removal from a hospital or other place where they are being accommodated 5. After the designated officer's inquiry, release the child unless there is still reasonable cause to believe they would be likely to suffer significant harm if released 6. No more than 72 hours in police protection
Who can use police protection?
A constable (inquiry and release by the designated officer)