How do I explain his absense

[Thetallestsunflower]

Hi there:
Wasn't sure if this was the right place to post this. Basically my ex and I have been separated for 18 months. My ex is bipolar and was sectioned almost 3 weeks ago due to a huge manic episode as he stopped taking his medication.
Prior to this sectioning I had started to limit his contact with my children as I was concerned about things he was saying to them and had found grab marks on my little boy-he said his dad did them. I involved social services and while they said the wouldn't intervene I was within my rights to limit his access is I was concerned. I feel he stopped taking the medication as a way to try and get back at me or show me he wasn't bipolar.
Anyway-the kids (aged 5 and 7) are starting to ask where their dad is-they don't seem to miss him or want to see him but are wondering where he is.
What shall I say to them-they know something is going on and are always trying to listen in on my conversations.

Do you think they are asking because they're worried about seeing him again in view of the marks he left ? Mental illness is a more difficult concept to explain to such small children . Might be worth posting on Chat to see if any other parents have recommendations for age appropriate resources for kids?

I'm assuming it's going to be some time before any contact will resume if he's an inpatient?

I think they were initially of the mindset that if they don't mention him they won't have to see him again but now they are starting to test the water by casually asking.

He has been asking to see them but then he won't let the hospital staff pass on information to me about how he is...so there is no way I could make an informed decision. My gut feeling is it will be harmful for the children to go there and see him and also when he is in a manic state he says a lot of things which make no sense at all, gets very paranoid and makes accusations. Last time he was sectioned I was still married to him and it was distressing enough for me to deal with him like that.

I'd be tempted to get back in touch with SS and ask for them to liaise with the medical team caring for him with regards future contact .