Adoption

---

Our Children and Family Services help children to remain at home with their families wherever possible. When this can't happen, children may be placed in other families whether this be extended family members or foster carers. Ongoing plans are made and reviewed with the aim of the child being returned to his or her family. However this is not always possible, and in these cases, 'permanency plans' are made for children and permanent families are then looked for. These can be either adoptive parent/s or permanent foster families.

If you are interested in a child or children becoming a permanent member of your family this can be achieved in two ways. The first is the legal process of adoption. This legal route is usually pursued for young children (under 8 years old). Adoption means that you become the child's legal parent and have full responsibility for the child throughout their life.

Alternatively a child can be permanently fostered. Permanent foster carers are carers who can commit to bringing children up into adulthood. Children are usually in the older age range (over 8) and who can have ongoing contact with birth family members.

Recruitment of permanent families

The process of assessment of adoptive parents and permanent carers is very similar. You will be offered an initial visit where you can explore which option would best suit your situation. If you wish to proceed, you will be invited to attend preparation groups. If you still wish to continue after this you will be asked to complete an application form and your assessment will begin.

Once completed, the assessment will be presented to the Adoption and Permanency Panel for your application to be considered and hopefully approved.

Support to permanent carers

Throughout your fostering career you will have a designated Family Placement Supervisor who will visit you on a regular basis to offer support, advice and guidance.

Permanent carers will be entitled to a fostering allowance. The current rates are between £154 and £340 per week depending on the age and needs of the child.

Adoptive parents

Adopters will also have a designated Family Placement Supervisor who will provide support, advice and guidance until the adoption process is completed. Post-adoption support is offered and encouraged too.

Adoptive parents may also be entitled to financial support based on an assessment of the needs of the child and a financial assessment of the adopters.

If you are interested in adoption or permanent fostering, please contact the Family Placement Team using the contact details.

If you are interested in adopting only babies (children under the age of 2 years), you may also wish to contact the Glasgow and West of Scotland Adoption Service. Contact details are in the contact information section.

Adoptees

If you are an adopted person, the service will offer counselling and may, if you wish, help with tracing your origin.

 

Contact Information