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Adoption

 

Adoption
 
 
Adoption brings pleasure to hundreds of people’s lives every year in Scotland. When you adopt a child you are legally given all parental responsibilities for that child as if that child was born to you. The birth parents lose all rights to that child once the adoption is completed.
 
 
Frequently Asked Questions about Adoption
 
 1.      Are you eligible to adopt a child?
 
You have to be over 21 to adopt a child but there is no upper age limit. Agencies are looking for people who will have the energy and devotion to care for a child.
 
 2.      How do you apply to adopt?
 
If you would like to adopt a child you will need to do so through an adoption agency. In Scotland most of the agencies are part of the Social Work department.  However there are also private agencies which can be approached. The majority of agencies work within a fifty mile radius so you should try to make an application to your nearest adoption agency.
 
3.      Can birth parents have contact with their child after they are adopted?
 
Often the adoption agency will allow the birth parents to send a letter or card once or twice a year. However, it is difficult to make a general comment as every adoption is different. In some cases if it is best for the child the adoption agency will allow direct contact with various members of the birth family sometimes even their birth parents.
 
4.    How are you matched with a child once you are approved by an agency?
 
Once a prospective adoptive parent has been approved by an agency they will try to match them with a child. The agency will have a panel that will discuss the kind of child which they think would be appropriate to be accepted into your family. It is important that they agency makes sure that the child is the right child for you and that you are the right parents for them to make the situation as easy as possible. It is essential that the child is happy in his or her new home.
 
 5.      How much does it cost to adopt?
Normally adoption is not an expensive process. However, if your become involved in a contested adoption the case can be expensive. If you found yourself in this situation it's possible your adoption agency would provide you with financial support. Social Work adoption services are usually free of charge but if you are adopting a child from overseas costs can become considerable. 
Useful Links for Adoption
 
The Adoption Information Line
 
 
The British Association for Adoption & Fostering
 
 
Adoption UK
 
 
 
 This legal information is simply a guide and it is not advice.

Please consult your local solicitor for advice and information.

 

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