What is adoption?
Adoption refers to the legal transfer of parental rights from either the state or the child’s birth family to a new family by a court order. Due to changing attitudes about adoption and trends of having children later adoption is becoming more common throughout the UK, with 3,500 entering permanent homes in 2020. The process is complex and is subject to strict laws about who is eligible to ensure that the child’s welfare will be looked after in a safe and secure home environment.
How is adoption carried out in the UK?
In the UK, adoption is carried out by local authority adoption agencies or registered adoption charities but must be formalised by a court order to be legitimate. The process is complicated and involves many steps but these agencies will guide potential parents through the process. As a result of the complex and rigorous steps, many prospective adopters may be rejected by an agency for several reasons, although many drop out of the process before this happens officially. This rejection can be challenged by potential adopters who feel the decision is incorrect or unfair.
Can I use private or international adoption?
In the UK, private adoption is illegal and international adoption can hold many ramifications. International adoption is still required to go through a UK adoption agency and be legitimised by an adoption order issued by a UK court. It is recommended to speak to a lawyer before pursuing international adoption, as prospective parents must ensure the adoption is carried out legally under the laws of both the UK and the country the child is being adopted from.
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