Information pack
You will be sent an information pack, which gives details about adoption and includes a Detailed Information form for you to complete and return to us.
Detailed Information Form
On receipt of this a Social Worker will make an appointment to visit you in your home to ensure that adoption is right for you and your family.
Initial Counselling and Information home visit
A social worker will visit you in your own home to discuss your interest in Adoption. During this meeting you will be given information about the children who need adoptive families, the process of adoption and the priorities that Staffordshire currently have in terms of processing enquiries from Prospective adopters. The social worker will look round your home to ensure that there are no safety concerns and that you have sufficient space for a child.
Statutory Checks
If, following the home visit, we feel that it is appropriate for you to proceed and you wish to do so, we will then take up statutory checks e.g. Criminal Records Bureau (police checks), Health Authority and personal references.
Attend Preparation Course
You will be required to attend a Preparation Course. These take place on three full days usually over the period of a week. The course will go into more depth about what is involved in Adoption and you will have the opportunity to hear from people who have already adopted.
Application to Adopt
Following the course, if you wish to proceed we ask you to return your intention to proceed form.
The Adoption Panel
The Prospective Adopters Report is presented to the Adoption Panel by your Social Worker and you. You are expected to attend the Adoption Panel. The Panel will make a recommendation as to whether or not you are approved as Adopters.
Your Social Worker will support you throughout the whole process.
Adoption Agency
The Adoption Agency has a Decision-Maker who considers the recommendations of the Adoption Panel and makes the final decision as to whether or not you are approved as Adopters. You will then be notified in writing of this decision.
