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. You will be allocated a social worker who will work with you to complete the assessment.
Once completed, the assessment will be presented to the Adoption and Permanency Panel for your application to be considered and hopefully approved.
East Ayrshire Council encourages applicants for both adoption and fostering from a range of backgrounds, and with different family structures, such as single carers, same sex couples and unmarried couples, provided the relationship is an enduring one. If you are interested in adoption or permanent fostering and are unsure about whether your particular circumstances would be considered, please do not hesitate to call and speak to a member of the team.
At the present time there is a particular need for adopters and permanent carers for sibling groups of two and three and we are particularly keen to hear from potential carers who could look after more than one child.
It is recognised that adopting a sibling group, or an older child who may have experienced trauma has the potential to bring challenges as well as rewards. A comprehensive Adoption Support Plan will be in place prior to any child or children being placed which would focus on any supports required to meet the child and adoptive family’s needs.