Local authorities have a duty of care to ensure that any child is safe, and not exposed to the risks of domestic violence, emotional or sexual abuse, or neglect. If you have been presented with a Section 20 agreement, it means the authorities are concerned about the welfare of your children and have asked you to consent to your children being looked after by someone else during their investigation. While this may be suitable in some circumstances, it is not a mandatory arrangement, and we would urge you to seek legal advice as soon as you can on the matter.