Guardianship of children who lost their parents during the war is one of the most important social issues for Ukraine. As a result of military operations, thousands of children found themselves in difficult living conditions, lost their parents or were separated from their families. Protecting these children, ensuring their well-being and creating conditions for stable development are becoming priorities of the state and society. One of the mechanisms for providing assistance is the registration of guardianship or guardianship by relatives or other close persons.
In Ukraine, there are two main forms of family education for children left without parents: guardianship (up to 14 years old) and foster care (from 14 to 18 years old). Most often, this role is assumed by grandparents, aunts, uncles, older brothers or sisters, as well as godparents.
The Ministry of Social Policy has developed a simplified procedure for registration of custody and guardianship during martial law, which makes it possible to resolve issues in the interests of the child more quickly.
In order to apply for custody of a child, the following package of documents must be submitted:
- application of a candidate for guardians or custodians;
- a copy of the passport of a citizen of Ukraine;
- documents that confirm family or family ties with the child;
- certificates from a narcologist and a psychiatrist about the absence of registration;
- a certificate of the presence or absence of a criminal record.
The peculiarity is that godparents can become guardians only if they received this status before the child became an orphan or was deprived of parental care.
Simplifying the guardianship process allows you to quickly find a person who will provide care and care for the child. Government policy is aimed at minimizing children’s stay in state institutions and promoting their upbringing in a family environment. This approach contributes to the emotional and social well-being of children who have already experienced serious life shocks.
Society and the state have a common goal – to help children affected by the war to find a new home and family warmth. It is important that every child who has lost parental care receives the support necessary for their harmonious development and future happy life.
