Things to consider
Rejection from an adoption agency can take a significant emotional toll on those wishing to adopt. Therefore, before reapplying or challenging the rejection, potential adoptive parents must consider if the reasons for rejection can realistically be overcome, if they can, how long it may take to rectify them, and if challenging it, if the potential emotional trauma of drawn-out review processes or another rejection may be too much strain for all concerned.
How can I challenge a rejection?
If rejected following an application to an adoption agency, it does not necessarily mean it is the end of the road. There are several options available to those who have been blocked from adopting by an agency for reasons they feel unfair or easily remedied.
- Those rejected from the adoption process are entitled to find out why and receive reasoning from the assessment panel following the refusal. It is important to consider if the reason is fair or resolvable before deciding to challenge the decision.
- Speak to another agency – Those who have been rejected by one agency can still apply to adopt through another agency. Make a note of the reasons you have been rejected, potentially attempt to resolve this issue if possible, then consider applying to another agency. Different agencies have different priorities and immediate needs, therefore those trying to adopt may have more luck with another agency
- Alternatively, those who have been or are going to be rejected by an agency for a reason they feel is unfair, can appeal to the adoption agency to review the application again.
- If this is unsuccessful, prospective adopters may wish to seek review from an independent body. In England, Independent Review Mechanisms can be asked to undertake this. In Wales, requests to review applications should be directed to the Independent Review Mechanism Wales. This process is free of charge.
It must be noted that Independent Review Mechanism panels cannot overrule or change the decision made by the agency, they can only make recommendations, which will likely force adoption agencies to reconsider an application if they are recommended to accept it.
3.73