I have been in almost exactly the same spot as your brother.
And I'd like you to consider this.

Your primary concern is for the welfare of the child. Your brother's feelings should have nothing to do with it if that's the case.

And it's clear from my experience that Social Services will only get involved if there's a high possibility of physical harm or indications from a doctor/teacher that something's up. And taking a child away from a parent is seen as an absolute last resort. Your goal should be to ensure her current home life is up to standard and if not, her mother needs to change. If that doesn't happen, eventually Social Services will start getting heavy, but that's a long way off yet.

I hope that's not too patronising. If you do wanna talk further, you can always gaz me.
( Noeli overtheshoulderboulderholderthingstraplatchboobs, Mon 29 Dec 2008, 11:18, Reply)