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Adoption

Could you make a child’s life complete?

We are looking for adopters to provide permanent loving homes for children who cannot live with their own families.

We are especially keen to hear from people who would consider adopting older children or more than one child from the same family.

There is no such thing as a ‘typical’ adopter as there is no such thing as a ‘typical’ child. However, you will need to be understanding, patient and above all have the time and sensitivity that these children will need to lead happy, fulfilled lives.

Some of your questions may be answered below, however, if you would like more information then please call the Adoption Team on 01443 490400.

What is adoption?
What does an adoption agency do?
What do I have to do?
I am a step parent is it the same for me?
Who are the children that require adoption?
I am a birth family member what can I expect?
I was adopted and would like to know more about my original family
What if I need advice after I have adopted a child?

What is adoption?

Adoption is a permanent legal way of enabling a child to join a family. It is strictly regulated by legislation and regulations.

Adoption is a very significant event for all involved and it is important to remember that adoption affects the child’s life and also that of the birth family on a permanent basis.

What does an adoption agency do?

The Adoption Agency is responsible for responding to enquiries from people interested in adopting in this country or from abroad. It provides training and advice throughout the adoption process and offers support to all those affected by adoption, adopters, birth families, children and adopted adults. It has primary responsibility for identifying potential families for those children needing adoption. The service also has responsibility for step parents wishing to adopt and adopted adults who are seeking to find information about their birth families

Tell me more

Anyone over the age of 21 can be considered as an adopter. However, there are certain requirements that have to be met and these are determined by law and what we know will be necessary

For example:-

• You must be of good character and not have criminal offences that would prevent you from being approved. These are specified and contained within the Adoption Regulations.
• You will need to have the energy and commitment to meet the needs of the child requiring adoption.
• Single people or couples can apply but if in a relationship this must be stable and supportive.
• You must have room both in your home and your life for an adopted child as their needs will differ from a birth child because of the life experiences they will have had.
• You will need to be resilient, have realistic expectations of a child and be prepared to alter your lifestyle to fit around the needs of a child.

What do I have to do?

You will need to contact the adoption team who will firstly take your details and suggest an initial visit to discuss your interest. You will then be offered training and following counselling a later assessment as an adopter if appropriate. For further details visit the British Association for Adoption & Fostering at www.baaf.org.uk

I am a step parent is it the same for me?

It is advisable to discuss this intention with an adoption social worker before lodging your application in Court so that you can be advised what potential issues may arise. A leaflet explaining the process is available on request. Information will also be available on the Court Services website.

Who are the children that require adoption?

Many people tend to think of babies when they think of adoption and it is true that babies sometimes do need adoption. However very few babies are given up for adoption these days and children of all ages in foster care need adoption. They will all need time to settle with a new family and will sometimes need extra support because of their life experiences. Further details of the issues affecting adopted children can be found at www.baaf.org.uk or at www.adoptionuk.org

I am a birth family member what can I expect?

The Adoption Agency makes provision for birth families seeking assistance and would be able to offer you advice and counselling in regards to keeping in touch with an adopted child via the letterbox system. After Adoption and Norcap can be useful agencies to contact for advice and support.

More information can be found at www.afteradoption.org.uk and www.norcap.org.uk

I was adopted and would like to know more about my original family

You will need to be 18 and if adopted before 1976 will need to be counselled by an adoption social worker before adoption information can be shared with you. If you were adopted after this time you can obtain your birth certificate from the General Register Office in Southport as you will know your original details from your adoptive family.

More details of this can be found on the website for the General Register Office (GRO) at www.gro.gov.uk

What if I need advice after I have adopted a child?

It is recognised that adoptive families and adopted children can have problems that will need some help. The Adoption and Children Act places a duty on adoption agencies to assist. The Adoption Team is always able to offer advice and where appropriate can assess your situation for additional support services. Adoption UK offers advice and support groups for adoptive parents visit their website at www.adoptionuk.org

Additional information with regards to Adoption can also be found at www.swaac.org.uk

If you would like any further information or assistance please contact the Adoption Team on 01443 490400 or email us at socialservices@rhondda-cynon-taf.gov.uk