EP for child with placement order

[WittyUsername123]

Hi all
Just trying to understand a situation we are facing and whether anyone has been in this position themselves. Apologies if the info seems a little woolly but obviously I’m trying not to be too specific!

We’re pursuing a link with two LOs (2 +1), siblings who are in separate FC placements at the moment for reasons which are probably too identifying to go into.

2YO FC frankly seems to be having some issues and is now saying she can’t care for him much longer due to health. We’re very concerned about another move as that would be fourth care-giver in his life!

SS are suggesting we do EP training and take him asap to avoid this. We are open to this but a little confused- as LO already has a placement order, why not just expedite panel and do it traditionally? Has anyone else heard of this and could maybe shed light as to why or anything else about this kind of experience?

We had a similar, but different situation where there was also a PO and the FC gave notice. We were already trained and happy to accept EP, but in our situation there were no timescales so it was an additional risk. However we went ahead and we were very fortunate that it all got resolved very quickly.

I appreciate you weren't initially considering EP so I would make sure you have a frank and honest conversation with your SW, around why they are going down the EP route and why the FC can't cope (is there more to this?). I would imagine a manager or senior person is also involved so you could ask they attend?

Obviously this is very outing, so I'm happy if you want to PM me.