The Process
As we're sure you understand it is crucial that we get the adoption right by ensuring what is best for a family and the child. Therefore the process is rigorous and can seem like it takes a long time. In reality, from your application being accepted to approval it will probably take 8 months depending upon each applicants individual circumstances.
These are the steps to adoption:
- Attend an information evening.
- Have 3-4 visits at your home with a Family Placements Social Worker, where you will discuss the process of adoption and your motivation for deciding that you want to adopt.
- Counselling is provided to help you address any issues. Even if you think that you don't need counselling it will help you to recognise your own strengths and weaknesses, changes to your lifestyle and available support networks.
- If you have been invited to apply, then you will begin the full assessment process.
- You will then be allocated to a specialised Adoption Assessment Social Worker who will work with you to complete a detailed application form.
- You will be required to attend a three day training course.
- You will be asked to have a medical with your GP and a Criminal Records Bureau check. We may ask to interview your ex-partners and any children you have.
- All the above information is gathered together to form a report which you will be able to see.
- This report will then be presented to an Adoption Panel, which you are able to attend. The Adoption panel makes a recommendation to the Agency Decision Maker and a decision is made within 7 working days.
- Once the decision has been made you will be informed of the result within 5 working days.
- If you are approved, then the process to identify the right child for you begins.
To find out more about adoption or to book your place on an information evening please contact us on 0114 273 5075 or through our online contact form.
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