Commentary on Sections Part 2 – Amendments of the Children Act 1989 Section 114: Residence orders: extension to age of 18
270.Section 114 amends section 12 of the Children Act 1989 to empower the court to direct in an appropriate case that a residence order made in favour of someone who is not the parent or guardian of a child may be extended until the child reaches the age of 18. At present a residence order ceases to have effect when the child reaches the age of 16, unless the court is satisfied that the circumstances are exceptional.  Section 114 further provides that where the court has directed that the order may be so extended, an application to vary or discharge the order may only be made with the leave of the court. The intention of this measure is to provide a further means of delivering enhanced security where the holder of a residence order who is not the child’s parent is caring for the child on a long term basis.