Page reportSummary
Page Layout
Display issue details:
The line numbers refer to lines in the original source. Any with a line number of '0' are implicit tags added by Total Validator:
1 <!doctype html>
2 <html lang="en">
3 <head>
4 <meta charset="utf-8">
12 
E916 [WCAG21 1.4.4 (AA)] Do not use 'viewport' settings which prevent the user from zooming in:
Using 'user-scalable=no' or 'maximum-scale' with a value less than 2.0 may prevent people with sight difficulties from being able to 'zoom in' to pages to read them. See Understanding 1.4.4. <meta name='viewport' content='width=device-width, initial-scale=1, maximum-scale=1'>
12 <title>
12 Adoption Support
12 </title>
13 <link href='css/css.php' rel='stylesheet' type='text/css' id="main_style"/>
14 <link rel='shortcut icon' href='images/favicon.ico' type='image/x-icon'/>
16 <link rel="apple-touch-icon" href="images/apple-touch-icon-57x57-precomposed.png" />
17 <link rel="apple-touch-icon" sizes="72x72" href="images/apple-touch-icon-72x72-precomposed.png" />
18 <link rel="apple-touch-icon" sizes="114x114" href="images/apple-touch-icon-114x114-precomposed.png" />
20 <meta name="application-name" content="Adoption Support" />
21 <meta name="msapplication-TileColor" content="#301880" />
22 <meta name="msapplication-square70x70logo" content="images/smalltile.png" />
23 <meta name="msapplication-square150x150logo" content="images/mediumtile.png" />
24 <meta name="msapplication-wide310x150logo" content="images/widetile.png" />
25 <meta name="msapplication-square310x310logo" content="images/largetile.png" />
29 <link href='normal.css' id='switch_style' rel='stylesheet' type='text/css'>
32 <link rel='stylesheet' media='(max-width: 1100px)' href='css/colours_mobile.css' />
36 <link href='css/print.css' rel='stylesheet' type='text/css' media='print'>
37 <link href='css/print_colours.css' rel='stylesheet' type='text/css' media='print'>
39 <script src="scripts/print.js">
39 </script>
40 <script src="scripts/jquery-1.6.4.min.js">
40 </script>
41 <script src="scripts/jquery-dateFormat.min.js">
41 </script>
42 <script src="scripts/js.cookie.js">
42 </script>
43 <script type="text/javascript" src="scripts/highlight.js">
43 </script>
44 <script src='https://www.google.com/recaptcha/api.js'>
44 </script>
45 <script type="text/javascript" src="scripts/jquery.js">
45 </script>
46 <script type="text/javascript" src="scripts/pageOrganizer.js">
46 </script>
47 <script>
54 </script>
116 <style>
117 #new_print {
118 display:block;
119 }
120 #old_print {
121 display:none;
122 }
123 </style>
131 <style>
132 ol {
133 counter-reset: item;
134 z-index:-1;
135 }
136 ol li.sub_list {
137 display: block;
138 position: relative;
139 }
140 ol li.sub_list:before {
141 content: counters(item, ".")".";
142 counter-increment: item;
143 position: absolute;
144 margin-right: 100%;
145 right: 3px;
146 }
147 ol li.remove_bullet:before {
148 P908 [WCAG21 1.3.1 (A)] Do not insert content using CSS:
Content inserted using CSS may not appear when CSS is turned off, or the user is using their own accessible style sheet. See WCAG 2.1 Failure F87. content:"\ \ \ ";
149 display:none;
150 }
151 </style>
155 <style>
156 .remove_bullet {
157 list-style:none;
158 }
159 </style>
183 </head>
184 <body onLoad="if (document.getElementById('zoom_searchbox'))
{document.getElementById('zoom_searchbox').focus();}">
186 <div id="skip">
186 <a href="#main_content" class="section_links">
186 Skip navigation to sections
186 </a>
186 </div>
187 <div id="cookie_bar">
187 We use cookies to track usage and preferences.
187 <a href="https://www.trixonline.co.uk/privacy-policy#cookies">
187 View our Cookie Policy
187 </a>
187 <div id="cookie_agree">
187 I Accept
187 </div>
187 </div>
190 <div id="head_bar">
192 <header>
193 <div id="grey_bar">
194 <div id="logo_holder">
195 <img src="images/client_logo.png" height="85" alt="Bexley Logo"/>
196 </div>
196 </div>
198 <div id="title">
199 <h1>
199 Bexley
199 <span id="h1_sub">
199 Children's Services Procedures Manual
199 </span>
199 </h1>
201 </div>
205 <div id="access_holder">
205 <div id="access_text_hold" onclick="location.href='accessibility.html';">
205 <a href="accessibility.html">
205 Accessibility
205 </a>
205 </div>
205 </div>
206 </header>
207 </div>
208 <nav>
210 <div id="sticky_navigation_wrapper">
211 <div id="sticky_navigation">
212 <div id="demo_container">
213 <div id="menu_toggle">
213 <img src="images/menu_white.png" id="drop_menu_button" height="20" alt="Menu toggle for
Mobile"/>
214 </div>
216 <div id="menu_items">
217 <ul>
218 <li>
218 <a href="index.html">
218 Home
218 </a>
218 </li>
219 <li>
219 <a href="contents.html">
219 Contents
219 </a>
219 </li>
220 <li class="dropdownmenu" id="doubletap1">
221 E958 [WCAG21 4.1.2 (A)] The 'aria-haspopup' attribute is not allowed in this context:
The ARIA specification only allows certain 'aria-...' attributes to be used with certain roles. See ARIA 1.2. <a class="toplink" href="menu.html" aria-haspopup="true">
221 Resources
221 <b>
221 ▾
221 </b>
221 </a>
222 <ul id="port_drop1" aria-label="submenu">
223 <li>
223 <a href="local_resources.html" tabindex="-1">
223 Policy Update
223 </a>
223 </li>
224 <li>
224 <a href="http://trixresources.proceduresonline.com/nat_key/index.htm" target="_blank"
tabindex="-1">
224 Glossary
224 </a>
224 </li>
225 <li>
225 <a href="http://trixresources.proceduresonline.com/nat_cont/index.htm"
target="_blank" tabindex="-1">
225 Contacts
225 </a>
225 </li>
226 </ul>
227 </li>
228 <li>
228 <a href="using_this_manual.html">
228 Using this Manual
228 </a>
228 </li>
229 <li>
229 <a href="http://www.londoncp.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
229 London Child Protection Procedures
229 </a>
229 </li>
231 </ul>
232 </div>
236 <div id="search">
236 <div id="search_contents">
237 E910 [WCAG21 1.4.4 (AA)] Use relative rather than absolute units:
Using relative units helps the page to be rendered correctly at different resolutions and allows people with sight difficulties to 'zoom in' to pages to read them. See Understanding 1.4.4. <form method="get" action="search_site.php" style="font-size:10px;">
239 <div id="input_holder">
241 W889 [WCAG21 4.1.2 (A)] Avoid using accessible names created from fallback attributes:
An accessible name generated from 'title', 'placeholder' or default values for <input> buttons, typically yields a low quality accessible name. Instead use the recommended way of setting the accessible name for this element. See Avoid Fallback, and Accessible Name Computation. <input type="text" name="zoom_query" placeholder="Search Manual" spellcheck="true" title="search"
class="search_bar">
242 </div>
243 <div id="mag_holder">
244 <input class="imagelink" type="image" src="images/mag_white.png" id="mag_glass"
height="25" alt="Search" title="Search">
246 </div>
246 </form>
246 </div>
246 </div>
248 </div>
251 </div>
253 </div>
258 </nav>
259 <div id="main_content" tabindex="-1">
260 <main>
263 <div id="print_watermark">
263 This document is only valid 72 hours after printing
263 <script>
263 </script>
263 . For the latest version please visit
263 <noscript>
263 the online manual.
263 </noscript>
263 <script>
263 </script>
263 </div>
265 <div id="chapter_title">
268 <div id="print_holder">
272 <div id="new_print">
272 <a onClick="window.print();" tabindex="0" class="imagelink" href="#">
272 <img id="print_img" src="images/print_black.png" height="30" alt="Click here to print"/>
272 </a>
272 </div>
276 <div id="old_print">
276 <form id="printMe" name="printMe">
276 <input class="imagelink" name="printMe" type="image" onclick="printSpecial()"
id="print_img_ie" src="images/print_black.png" height="30" width="33" alt="Print this
page" title="Print Button">
276 </form>
276 </div>
279 </div>
282 <h2>
282 Adoption Support
282 </h2>
284 </div>
287 <div id="scope_box">
288 <h3>
288 RELEVANT GUIDANCE
288 </h3>
289 <p>
289 <a href="http://www.first4adoption.org.uk/being-an-adoptive-parent/the-adoption-passport/"
target="_blank" rel="noopener">
289 The Adoption Passport: A Support Guide for Adopters
289 </a>
289 </p>
290 <p>
290 <a href="https://www.gov.uk/guidance/adoption-support-fund-asf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
290 Adoption Support Fund (Mott MacDonald/DfE)
290 </a>
290 </p>
291 <p>
291 <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/adoption-statutory-guidance-2013"
target="_blank" rel="noopener">
291 Adoption Statutory Guidance 2013
291 </a>
291 </p>
292 <h3>
292 RELEVANT LINKS
292 </h3>
293 <p>
293 <a href="http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/691/contents/made" target="_blank"
rel="noopener">
293 Adoption Support Services Regulations 2005
293 </a>
293 </p>
294 <p>
294 <a href="https://corambaaf.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
294 CoramBAAF Adoption Allowances
294 </a>
294 </p>
295 <p>
295 <span class="bold">
295 Adoption Allowance Process
295 </span>
295 and
295 <span class="bold">
295 Adoption Allowance Review Process
295 </span>
295 available at:
295 <span class="italic">
295 N:\Directorate of Social & Community Services\Children & Families\Strategies Policies
& Procedures\Adoption and Permanence
295 </span>
295 </p>
296 <h3>
296 AMENDMENT
296 </h3>
297 <p>
297 This chapter was updated in April 2019 in line with the Children and Social Work Act 2017 and
revised statutory guidance which require schools, through the Designated Teacher for Looked After
Children, to offer support to previously looked after children.
297 </p>
298 <p>
298 A previously looked-after child is one who is no longer looked after in England and Wales because
subject of an Adoption, Special Guardianship or Child Arrangements Order which includes
arrangements relating to with whom the child is to live, or when the child is to live with any
person, or has been adopted from 'state care' outside England and Wales).
298 </p>
299 </div>
300 <div id="sections">
302 <h3 id="sections_list">
302 Contents
302 </h3>
303 <ol>
304 <li class="sub_list">
304 <a href="#what_adop_support">
304 What is Adoption Support?
304 </a>
304 </li>
305 <li class="sub_list">
305 <a href="#duty_to_provide">
305 Duty to Provide Information Concerning Adoption Support
305 </a>
305 </li>
306 <li class="sub_list">
306 <a href="#examples_adop_support">
306 Examples of Adoption Support
306 </a>
306 </li>
307 <li class="sub_list">
307 <a href="#when_to_assess">
307 When to Assess the Need for Adoption Support
307 </a>
307 </li>
308 <li class="sub_list">
308 <a href="#which_local">
308 Which Local Authority Should Carry out the Assessment?
308 </a>
308 </li>
309 <li class="sub_list">
309 <a href="#which_local_auth">
309 Which Local Authority Should Provide the Support?
309 </a>
309 </li>
310 <li class="sub_list">
310 <a href="#process_assess">
310 Process of Assessment for Adoption Support
310 </a>
310 </li>
311 <li class="sub_list">
311 <a href="#adop_aupport">
311 The Adoption Support Plan
311 </a>
311 </li>
312 <li class="sub_list">
312 <a href="#financial_support">
312 Financial Support
312 </a>
312 </li>
313 <li class="remove_bullet">
313 W867 [WCAG21 2.4.4 (A)] Identical adjacent links that use different link text may be confusing: See
matching tag on line: 314
If you have adjacent links to the same place with different link text it can be confusing to the user. You should consider combining these into one link and removing any redundant link text. See Understanding 2.4.4. <a href="#appendices">
313 Appendix 1: Adoption Financial Support Application Form
313 </a>
313 </li>
314 <li class="remove_bullet">
314 W867 [WCAG21 2.4.4 (A)] Identical adjacent links that use different link text may be confusing: See
matching tag on line: 313
If you have adjacent links to the same place with different link text it can be confusing to the user. You should consider combining these into one link and removing any redundant link text. See Understanding 2.4.4. <a href="#appendices">
314 Appendix 2: Adoption Allowance Payment Offer
314 </a>
314 </li>
315 <li class="remove_bullet">
315 W867 [WCAG21 2.4.4 (A)] Identical adjacent links that use different link text may be confusing: See
matching tag on line: 314
If you have adjacent links to the same place with different link text it can be confusing to the user. You should consider combining these into one link and removing any redundant link text. See Understanding 2.4.4. <a href="#appendices">
315 Appendix 3: Adoption Allowance Agreement
315 </a>
315 </li>
316 <li class="remove_bullet">
316 W867 [WCAG21 2.4.4 (A)] Identical adjacent links that use different link text may be confusing: See
matching tag on line: 315
If you have adjacent links to the same place with different link text it can be confusing to the user. You should consider combining these into one link and removing any redundant link text. See Understanding 2.4.4. <a href="#appendices">
316 Appendix 4: Letter – Adoption Allowance Review of Child's Needs
316 </a>
316 </li>
317 <li class="remove_bullet">
317 W867 [WCAG21 2.4.4 (A)] Identical adjacent links that use different link text may be confusing: See
matching tag on line: 316
If you have adjacent links to the same place with different link text it can be confusing to the user. You should consider combining these into one link and removing any redundant link text. See Understanding 2.4.4. <a href="#appendices">
317 Appendix 5: Post Adoption Support Assessment of Need
317 </a>
317 </li>
318 <li class="remove_bullet">
318 W867 [WCAG21 2.4.4 (A)] Identical adjacent links that use different link text may be confusing: See
matching tag on line: 317
If you have adjacent links to the same place with different link text it can be confusing to the user. You should consider combining these into one link and removing any redundant link text. See Understanding 2.4.4. <a href="#appendices">
318 Appendix 6: Outcome of Adoption Allowance Review Letter
318 </a>
318 </li>
319 </ol>
320 <h3 id="what_adop_support">
320 1. What is Adoption Support?
320 </h3>
321 <p>
321 Adoption Support includes any support likely to be required for an adoptive placement to endure
through to adulthood and is applicable to both existing and new situations.
321 </p>
322 <p>
322 Local authorities must make arrangements, as part of their adoption service, for the provision of
a range of adoption support services.
322 </p>
323 <p>
323 Local authorities do not have to provide the services themselves but must have made arrangements
for services to be provided by voluntary or other agencies such as Health or Education.
323 </p>
324 <h3 id="duty_to_provide">
324 2. Duty to Provide Information Concerning Adoption Support
324 </h3>
325 <p>
325 Under the Adoption and Children Act 2002 (as amended by the Children and Families Act 2014), the
local authority has a duty to provide information on adoption support services to:
325 </p>
326 <ul>
327 <li>
327 Anyone contacting the authority to request information about adopting a child;
327 </li>
328 <li>
328 Anyone informing the authority that (s)he wishes to adopt a child;
328 </li>
329 <li>
329 Any parent of an adopted child within the authority's area who requests the information;
329 </li>
330 <li>
330 Any parent of an adopted child within the authority's area of whom the authority is/becomes
aware (e.g. where a parent rings about an SEN assessment and it becomes clear that the child is
adopted).
330 </li>
331 </ul>
332 <p>
332 Information must be provided about:
332 </p>
333 <ul>
334 <li>
334 The full range of adoption support services available in the local authority area. This
includes, but is not limited to, therapeutic services, assistance in relation to contact
arrangements, and financial support;
334 </li>
335 <li>
335 The right to request an assessment for adoption support services (at any time);
335 </li>
336 <li>
336 The address and telephone number of the authority's Adoption Support Services Adviser;
336 </li>
337 <li>
337 The availability of assessments for adoption support services for persons outside the local
authority area, so that parents understand which local authority is responsible for assessing
their support needs;
337 </li>
338 <li>
338 Contact details for
338 <a href="http://www.first4adoption.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
338 First4Adoption
338 </a>
338 and the local the web-based information service which provides information about adoption;
338 </li>
339 <li>
339 Priority school admissions (where relevant). Details can be found at
339 <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/school-admissions-code--2"
target="_blank" rel="noopener">
339 School Admission of Children Adopted from Local Authority Care, GOV.UK website
339 </a>
339 ;
339 </li>
340 <li>
340 Priority council housing and Discretionary Housing Payments;
340 </li>
341 <li>
341 The entitlement to early education from the age of 2 years (since September 2014);
341 </li>
342 <li>
342 How to make a complaint, both under the local authority complaints procedure and to the Local
Government and Social Care Ombudsman;
342 </li>
343 <li>
343 Any other relevant services provided by the local authority;
343 </li>
344 <li>
344 Any other information that the local authority considers relevant.
344 </li>
345 </ul>
346 <p>
346 The following information must also be provided to potential and prospective adopters:
346 </p>
347 <ul>
348 <li>
348 Details of where to find information about adoption pay and leave. Details can be found at
348 <a href="https://www.gov.uk/adoption-pay-leave" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
348 Adoption Pay and Leave (GOV.UK website)
348 </a>
348 ;
348 </li>
349 <li>
349 Information about the right to receive a copy of the child's permanence report, including a
summary of the medical adviser's report on the health of the child, before the child is placed
with them for adoption;
349 </li>
350 <li>
350 The entitlement to a life story book. This should include who provides the life story book, what
it includes and what it can be used for.
350 </li>
351 </ul>
352 <p>
352 When a person requests information about a specific service, the local authority must ask whether
they would like any of the other information as well.
352 </p>
353 <p>
353 Information does
353 <span class="bold">
353 not
353 </span>
353 need to be provided where:
353 </p>
354 <ul>
355 <li>
355 The local authority has provided all the necessary information in the last 12 months and none of
the information has changed substantively;
355 </li>
356 <li>
356 A person has informed the local authority that they do not wish to receive the information
(unless the authority considers it appropriate to do so);
356 </li>
357 <li>
357 Where the information has already been sent, e.g. where the same person requests the information
a number of times in a short period.
357 </li>
358 </ul>
359 <p>
359 If the local authority refuses a person's request for information, it should give reasons for the
refusal and signpost the person to the website that holds the information.
359 </p>
360 <h3 id="examples_adop_support">
360 3. Examples of Adoption Support
360 </h3>
361 <p>
361 See also
361 <a href="http://www.first4adoption.org.uk/being-an-adoptive-parent/the-adoption-passport/"
target="_blank" rel="noopener">
361 The Adoption Passport: A Support Guide for Adopters
361 </a>
361 .
361 </p>
362 <p>
362 Adoption support is defined as including:
362 </p>
363 <ol>
364 <li>
364 Financial support to adopters. This can include paid adoption leave at similar rates to
maternity and paternity leave;
364 </li>
365 <li>
365 Priority access to social housing, and access to additional support to cover a spare room whilst
adopters wait for their child to arrive in their new home;
365 </li>
366 <li>
366 Priority admission for school places, including academies and free schools;
366 </li>
367 <li>
367 The role of the designated teacher in offering support to previously looked after children and
to their new school. See
367 <a href="p_educ_lac.html">
367 Education of Looked After and Previously Looked After Children Procedure
367 </a>
367 ;
367 </li>
368 <li>
368 Services to enable groups of adoptive children, adoptive parents and birth parents to discuss
matters relating to adoption;
368 </li>
369 <li>
369 Assistance, including mediation, with contact arrangements between adopted children and their
birth parents or others with whom they share a significant relationship;
369 </li>
370 <li>
370 Therapeutic services for adopted children;
370 </li>
371 <li>
371 Assistance to adoptive parents and children to support the adoptive placement and enable it to
continue, including respite care;
371 </li>
372 <li>
372 Assistance to adoptive parents and children where a placement disrupts or is at risk of
disruption;
372 </li>
373 <li>
373 A range of adoption support services, including access to counselling, information and advice
for both adoptive parents and their children, who may have complex needs;
373 </li>
374 <li>
374 Assistance with cross boundary matters;
374 </li>
375 <li>
375 Intermediary Services - see
375 <a href="p_intermed_serv.html">
375 Intermediary Services Procedure
375 </a>
375 .
375 </li>
376 </ol>
377 <p>
377 Support provided under 4) to 8) above may include cash assistance, for example to pay for a
babysitter, although this would not be regarded as financial support.
377 </p>
378 <h3 id="when_to_assess">
378 4. When to Assess the Need for Adoption Support
378 </h3>
379 <table class="borderless" title="When to Assess the Need for Adoption Support">
380 <tr>
381 <td>
381 <p>
381 4.1
381 </p>
381 </td>
382 <td>
382 <p id="para_three_point_one">
382 In relation to adoptions arranged by the agency, practitioners must assess the need for
adoption support at the following stages of care and permanence planning:
382 </p>
383 <ol style="list-style-type:lower-alpha">
384 <li>
385 <p>
385 When preparing the Child's Permanence Report for presentation to the Adoption Panel as
to whether the child should be placed for adoption;
385 </p>
386 </li>
387 <li>
388 <p>
388 When preparing the Prospective Adopter's Report for presentation to the Adoption Panel
as to the suitability of prospective adoptive parents to adopt;
388 </p>
389 </li>
390 <li>
391 <p>
391 When considering and preparing the Adoption Placement Report for presentation to the
Adoption Panel in relation to the proposed placement of a child with particular
prospective adopters.
391 </p>
392 </li>
393 </ol>
393 </td>
394 </tr>
395 <tr>
396 <td style="width:3%">
396 <p>
396 4.2
396 </p>
396 </td>
397 <td>
397 <p id="para_three_point_two">
397 In relation to placements arranged by the agency, adoption support must also always be
considered at a child's Adoption Reviews following the adoptive placement.
397 </p>
398 <p>
398 See
398 <a href="p_adoption_reviews.html">
398 Adoption Reviews Procedure
398 </a>
398 .
398 </p>
398 </td>
399 </tr>
400 <tr>
401 <td style="width:3%">
401 <p>
401 4.3
401 </p>
401 </td>
402 <td>
402 <p id="para_three_point_three">
402 Local authorities must also undertake assessments of need for adoption support at the
request of the following:
402 </p>
403 <ol style="list-style-type:lower-roman">
404 <li>
405 <p>
405 Children who may be adopted, their parents or guardians;
405 </p>
406 </li>
407 <li>
408 <p>
408 Persons wishing to adopt a child;
408 </p>
409 </li>
410 <li>
411 <p>
411 Adopted persons, their parents, birth parents and former guardians;
411 </p>
412 </li>
413 <li>
414 <p>
414 Other children of adoptive parents (whether or not they are adopted);
414 </p>
415 </li>
416 <li>
417 <p>
417 Birth siblings of adopted children;
417 </p>
418 </li>
419 <li>
420 <p>
420 Relatives of the adopted child or other persons with whom the child has a beneficial
relationship.
420 </p>
421 </li>
422 </ol>
423 <p>
423 The requirement to assess the need for support is limited to the entitlement to services of
the person making the request.
423 </p>
424 <p>
424 As well as adoptions arranged by the local authority, children adopted from abroad are
entitled to be assessed for therapeutic services and disruption support. It is only where
the adoption is by a step parent that there is no requirement to carry out an assessment,
although in such cases, counselling, advice and information may be offered as appropriate.
424 </p>
424 </td>
425 </tr>
426 </table>
427 <h3 id="which_local">
427 5. Which Local Authority Should Carry out the Assessment?
427 </h3>
428 <p>
428 The table below sets out which local authority has responsibility for carrying out the assessment
of need for adoption support, and in what circumstances.
428 </p>
429 <table title="Which Local Authority Should Carry Out The Assessment?">
430 <tr class="table_header">
431 <td>
431 Circumstance
431 </td>
432 <td>
432 Responsibility for Assessment
432 </td>
433 </tr>
434 <tr class="table_row_odd">
435 <td class="table_row_even">
435 <p>
435 Child being Looked After and in respect of whom an adoption plan is being considered
435 </p>
435 </td>
436 <td>
436 <p>
436 The local authority looking after the child
436 </p>
436 </td>
437 </tr>
438 <tr>
439 <td class="table_row_even">
439 <p>
439 Child placed with or adopted by family living in the area of the local authority arranging
the adoption
439 </p>
439 </td>
440 <td>
440 <p>
440 The local authority for the area where the child and adopters live
440 </p>
440 </td>
441 </tr>
442 <tr class="table_row_odd">
443 <td class="table_row_even">
443 <p>
443 Child placed with and/or adopted by family living outside the local authority area
443 </p>
443 </td>
444 <td>
444 <p>
444 The placing local authority has responsibility at the time of the placement and for up to 3
years after the Adoption Order is made, and then the local authority where the adopters live
will have the responsibility
444 </p>
444 </td>
445 </tr>
446 <tr>
447 <td class="table_row_even">
447 <p>
447 In all other cases (i.e. non agency placements except step parent adoptions)
447 </p>
447 </td>
448 <td>
448 <p>
448 The local authority where the requester lives must assess
448 </p>
448 </td>
449 </tr>
450 </table>
451 <h3 id="which_local_auth">
451 6. Which Local Authority Should Provide Support?
451 </h3>
452 <p>
452 The local authority responsible for carrying out the assessment of need should provide support to
meet the identified needs.
452 </p>
453 <p>
453 The exception to this is where ongoing financial support and/or supporting contact arrangements
have been agreed by the placing authority before the Adoption Order was made, in which case the
responsibility to provide such support will remain with that authority for as long as eligibility
for the service continues.
453 </p>
454 <h3 id="process_assess">
454 7. Process of Assessment for Adoption Support
454 </h3>
455 <p>
455 In all cases where an assessment is required, the practitioners involved should conduct
assessments by following the guidance set out in
455 <a href="http://www.workingtogetheronline.co.uk/chapters/chapter_one.html#assessments"
target="_blank" rel="noopener">
455 Working Together to Safeguard Children
455 </a>
455 . The assessment should take account of the adoption context and, where the assessment relates to
the child, all the developmental needs of the child should be covered including health, education
and emotional needs, and contact issues. The relevant education service and health trust should be
consulted as necessary.
455 </p>
456 <p>
456 Assessments of need for adoption support under
456 <a href="#para_three_point_one">
456 paragraph 4.1 (a) and (b)
456 </a>
456 above should be carried out by the child's social worker and/or the prospective adopters' social
worker as appropriate prior to being presented to the Adoption Panel. The assessment under
456 <a href="#para_three_point_one">
456 paragraph 4.1.(c)
456 </a>
456 at the time of the child's proposed placement with prospective adopters should be considered at
the Matching Meeting and also have the approval of the
456 <a href="files/sod_decision_making.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
456 Designated Manager (Adoption Support)
456 </a>
456 prior to being presented to the Adoption Panel with the Adoption Placement Report. At all stages,
the Adoption Panel must consider and may give advice on the proposed adoption support and this
advice will be considered by the
456 <a href="files/sod_decision_making.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
456 Agency Decision Maker
456 </a>
456 , before making a final decision on the contents of the Adoption Support Plan - see
456 <a href="p_place_adop.html">
456 Placement for Adoption Procedure
456 </a>
456 .
456 </p>
457 <p>
457 Any assessment (under
457 <a href="#para_three_point_two">
457 paragraph 4.2
457 </a>
457 ) considered necessary at an Adoption Review, as a result of which a change in the Adoption
Support Plan is required, should be referred to the Designated Manager (Adoption Support) for
approval who will consider whether the case should be referred back to the Adoption Panel and the
Agency Decision Maker.
457 </p>
458 <p>
458 Requests for assessment for adoption support under
458 <a href="#para_three_point_three">
458 paragraph 4.3
458 </a>
458 above will be allocated to a social worker to carry out an assessment, with advice from the
Adoption Support Services Adviser as necessary. The assessing social worker will usually need to
interview the person being assessed - where this is a child, the adoptive parents will also need
to be interviewed depending on the case and the age, understanding and wishes of the child.
458 </p>
459 <p>
459 An assessment will not be required before providing advice and information.
459 </p>
460 <p>
460 Where an assessment is carried out as a result of a request under
460 <a href="#para_three_point_three">
460 paragraph 4.3
460 </a>
460 , a written report of the assessment should be produced and agreed by the Designated Manager
(Adoption Support).
460 </p>
461 <p>
461 A copy of the assessment report, once approved, should be sent to the person assessed with notice
of the outcome of the assessment, which should state:
461 </p>
462 <ol>
463 <li>
463 The person's assessed needs for support;
463 </li>
464 <li>
464 Whether the local authority proposes to provide adoption support services and if so, what the
proposed services are;
464 </li>
465 <li>
465 Where the assessment relates to the need for financial support, how this has been determined and
calculated and the conditions to be attached, (see
465 <a href="#financial_support">
465 Section 9, Financial Support
465 </a>
465 ).
465 </li>
466 </ol>
467 <p>
467 Where the person assessed is a child, and it is not appropriate to send the notice to the child,
notices should be sent to the adoptive parent or the most appropriate adult.
467 </p>
468 <p>
468 Where services are proposed, a draft Adoption Support Plan should usually be attached to the
notice and those assessed should be allowed time to consider and make representations on the
proposal as set out in
468 <a href="#adop_aupport">
468 Section 8, The Adoption Support Plan
468 </a>
468 .
468 </p>
469 <p>
469 Where the service proposed is one-off, the notice of the outcome of the assessment will be
sufficient to outline what is proposed and a draft plan will not be required.
469 </p>
470 <h3 id="adop_aupport">
470 8. The Adoption Support Plan
470 </h3>
471 <h4>
471 8.1 Contents of Adoption Support Plan
472 </h4>
473 <p>
473 An Adoption Support Plan should set out clearly:
473 </p>
474 <ol>
475 <li>
475 The objectives of the plan and the key services to be provided;
475 </li>
476 <li>
476 The timescales for achieving the plan;
476 </li>
477 <li>
477 Those responsible for implementing the plan and the respective roles of others; what should be
provided, when and by whom;
477 </li>
478 <li>
478 The criteria that will be used to evaluate the success of the plan;
478 </li>
479 <li>
479 The procedures that will be put in place to review the services to be provided and the plan.
479 </li>
480 </ol>
481 <p>
481 The Adoption Support Plan will need to be completed after consultation with the appropriate Health
Trust, CAMHS or education service where any special arrangements may need to be made. Where the
child is placed in the area of another local authority, the agencies in that authority's area will
need to be consulted as to what services may be available for the adopters and the adopted
children. In these circumstances, the prospective adopters should be assisted with any
cross-boundary issues that may arise.
481 </p>
482 <p>
482 The Adoption Support Plan should include any proposed financial support, how the amount has been
calculated, where it is to be paid in instalments - the frequency of payment, the period over
which it will be paid and when the first payment is to be made, the conditions and the
consequences of failing to meet them and the arrangements for review, variation and termination,
(see
482 <a href="#financial_support">
482 Section 9, Financial Support
482 </a>
482 ).
482 </p>
483 <h4>
483 8.2 Consultation with proposed recipients of adoption support
484 </h4>
485 <p>
485 Once a proposed Adoption Support Plan has the approval of the
485 <a href="files/sod_decision_making.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
485 Designated Manager (Adoption Support)
485 </a>
485 , a copy should be sent to the proposed recipients of the support, as well as to any party
involved in the delivery of the plan.
485 </p>
486 <p>
486 The recipients of the proposed support should be given 10 working days to consider the proposals
and make representations to the local authority about the proposed plan. Any representations made
should be considered by the Designated Manager (Adoption Support), who will amend the draft plan
as appropriate and inform the recipients of the outcome of their considerations.
486 </p>
487 <h4>
487 8.3 Approval of Adoption Support Plan
488 </h4>
489 <p>
489 In relation to proposed agency adoptive placements, the proposed Adoption Support Plan will be
submitted to the Adoption Panel when the proposed placement of a child with particular prospective
adopters is recommended. The final Adoption Support Plan will be approved, taking into account any
advice given by the Adoption Panel. See
489 <a href="p_place_adop.html">
489 Placement for Adoption Procedure
489 </a>
489 .
489 </p>
490 <p>
490 In relation to other situations in which adoption support is proposed, the Adoption Support Plan
will be approved by the Designated Manager (Adoption Support).
490 </p>
491 <h4>
491 8.4 Distribution of Adoption Support Plan
492 </h4>
493 <p>
493 A copy of the final plan should go to all those involved in implementing it, and to the recipients
of services (or appropriate adult). Where the child has an Independent Reviewing Officer, a copy
should be sent to them.
493 </p>
494 <h4>
494 8.5 Reviews of Adoption Support Plan
495 </h4>
496 <p>
496 Where adoption support is in place prior to an Adoption Order, the Adoption Support Plan should be
reviewed at the reviews of the adoptive placement - see
496 <a href="p_adoption_reviews.html">
496 Adoption Reviews Procedure
496 </a>
496 - or at any time if there is a significant change of circumstances, within 4 weeks of the
notification of the change.
496 </p>
497 <p>
497 After the Adoption Order has been made, the Adoption Support Plan will be reviewed if a change in
circumstances is brought to the notice of the local authority. The Adoption Service Manager will
decide on the format and content of any such review, which will depend on the circumstances of the
case. It may refer to only one element of the Plan or be relatively minor in which case an
exchange of correspondence may be sufficient. (For annual reviews of financial support, see
497 <a href="#annual">
497 Section 9.10, Annual Review of Support
497 </a>
497 ).
497 </p>
498 <p>
498 Where the change of circumstances is substantial, such as a serious change in the behaviour of the
child, it may be appropriate to conduct a new assessment of needs involving other parties.
498 </p>
499 <p>
499 If as a result of a review, whether before or after an Adoption Order has been made, it is
proposed to vary or terminate the support, the proposed change must be referred to the Designated
Manager (Adoption Support) for approval, who, in the case of agency adoptive placements, may
decide to refer the case back to the Adoption Panel for information and advice and then to the
Agency Decision Maker for a decision to be made.
499 </p>
500 <p>
500 Once approved, the person concerned must be notified of the proposed change, together with a copy
of the revised Adoption Support Plan in draft. They must then be given 10 working days to make
representations on the proposals.
500 </p>
501 <p>
501 Any such representations should be submitted to the
501 <a href="files/sod_decision_making.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
501 Designated Manager (Adoption Support)
501 </a>
501 whose decision as to the final contents of the revised Adoption Support Plan should take into
account any representations made.
501 </p>
502 <p>
502 Notice of the decision must then be sent to the person concerned with reasons and, where
appropriate, a copy of the revised plan.
502 </p>
503 <h4>
503 8.6 Urgent Cases
504 </h4>
505 <p>
505 Where there is an urgent need for support, the support can be provided before a Plan is drawn up
but the above procedure should then be followed as soon as possible.
505 </p>
506 <h3 id="financial_support">
506 9. Financial Support
506 </h3>
507 <table class="borderless" title="section 9 contents">
508 <tr>
509 <td style="width:3%">
509 <p>
509 9.1
509 </p>
509 </td>
510 <td>
510 <p>
510 <a href="#intro">
510 Introduction
510 </a>
510 </p>
510 </td>
511 </tr>
512 <tr>
513 <td style="width:3%">
513 <p>
513 9.2
513 </p>
513 </td>
514 <td>
514 <p>
514 <a href="#legal">
514 Legal Framework
514 </a>
514 </p>
514 </td>
515 </tr>
516 <tr>
517 <td style="width:3%">
517 <p>
517 9.3
517 </p>
517 </td>
518 <td>
518 <p>
518 <a href="#policy">
518 Policy
518 </a>
518 </p>
518 </td>
519 </tr>
520 <tr>
521 <td style="width:3%">
521 <p>
521 9.4
521 </p>
521 </td>
522 <td>
522 <p>
522 <a href="#general">
522 The General Methods of Payment
522 </a>
522 </p>
522 </td>
523 </tr>
524 <tr>
525 <td style="width:3%">
525 <p>
525 9.5
525 </p>
525 </td>
526 <td>
526 <p>
526 <a href="#criteria">
526 Criteria / When can an Adoption Allowance be Paid?
526 </a>
526 </p>
526 </td>
527 </tr>
528 <tr>
529 <td style="width:3%">
529 <p>
529 9.6
529 </p>
529 </td>
530 <td>
530 <p>
530 <a href="#types">
530 Types of Payment
530 </a>
530 </p>
530 </td>
531 </tr>
532 <tr>
533 <td style="width:3%">
533 <p>
533 9.7
533 </p>
533 </td>
534 <td>
534 <p>
534 <a href="#assess">
534 Assessment of Financial Support
534 </a>
534 </p>
534 </td>
535 </tr>
536 <tr>
537 <td>
537 <p>
537 9.8
537 </p>
537 </td>
538 <td>
538 <p>
538 <a href="#notification">
538 Notifications
538 </a>
538 </p>
538 </td>
539 </tr>
540 <tr>
541 <td>
541 <p>
541 9.9
541 </p>
541 </td>
542 <td>
542 <p>
542 <a href="#condition">
542 Conditions
542 </a>
542 </p>
542 </td>
543 </tr>
544 <tr>
545 <td>
545 <p>
545 9.10
545 </p>
545 </td>
546 <td>
546 <p>
546 <a href="#annual">
546 Annual Review of Support
546 </a>
546 </p>
546 </td>
547 </tr>
548 <tr>
549 <td>
549 <p>
549 9.11
549 </p>
549 </td>
550 <td>
550 <p>
550 <a href="#suspension">
550 Suspension of Support
550 </a>
550 </p>
550 </td>
551 </tr>
552 <tr>
553 <td>
553 <p>
553 9.12
553 </p>
553 </td>
554 <td>
554 <p>
554 <a href="#ending">
554 Ending of Financial Support
554 </a>
554 </p>
554 </td>
555 </tr>
556 </table>
557 <h4 id="intro">
557 9.1 Introduction
557 </h4>
558 <p>
558 The purpose of this policy is to outline the Council's Adoption Financial Support Scheme.
Financial support is paid by Bexley's Children's Social Care (CSC).
558 </p>
559 <p>
559 This policy should be read in conjunction with relevant updating guidance from the Department for
Education and relevant legislation and case law.
559 </p>
560 <p>
560 The term 'adoption allowance' refers to a periodic or regular payment payable at intervals
determined by the Adoption Agency. An allowance might be paid to help adopters cope with the costs
involved for caring for a group of siblings or a child with identified special needs.
560 </p>
561 <h4 id="legal">
561 9.2 Legal Framework
561 </h4>
562 <p>
562 With the introduction of the Adoption and Children Act 2002 a new regulatory structure for
adoption support services was introduced which placed a duty on local authorities to assess the
need for adoption support services for adoptive families and others. The Adoption Support Services
Regulations 2005 (the 2005 Regulations) specify the conditions for providing adoption support
services including the provision of financial support.
562 </p>
563 <h4 id="policy">
563 9.3 Policy
563 </h4>
564 <p>
564 Bexley, subject to eligibility, is able in certain circumstances to provide financial support to
an adoptive parent or prospective adoptive parent, for the purpose of supporting the placement of
the adoptive child or the continuation of adoption arrangements after an adoption order is made.
564 </p>
565 <p>
565 A request for an assessment of eligibility for financial support can be made at any time following
adoption by an adopter. Bexley has a duty to provide an assessment of need but has discretion as
to whether to provide financial support. Eligibility for financial support will be based on an
overall assessment of the child and adoptive family's support needs undertaken using the Framework
for the Assessment of Children in Need and Their Families and related practice guidance. This
includes the undertaking of an assessment at the request of an adoptive parent, after the granting
of an Adoption Order, if the adoptive parent feels there have been significant changes to a
child's needs and circumstances or their own financial circumstances.
565 </p>
566 <p>
566 Bexley will use the DfE Model Means Test to determine the level of financial support provided.
566 </p>
567 <h4 id="general">
567 9.4 The General Methods of Payment
567 </h4>
568 <p>
568 The general methods of payment for financial support are by way of:
568 </p>
569 <ol>
570 <li>
570 Regular payments - which will be based upon the developmental age of the child and calculated as
agreed
570 <span class="bold">
570 periodically
570 </span>
570 by the local authority to meet a specific assessed on-going need;
570 </li>
571 <li>
571 Lump sum payments (settling in costs, special needs and adaptations), which will cover items or
adaptations that are required as a consequence of an assessment of each child's individual's
needs. Payment may be in instalments and will end at a time specified by the local authority;
571 </li>
572 <li>
572 Payments in special circumstances, (for example, a child with additional needs or where foster
carers adopt a child for whom they are already caring, or where adopters incur legal expenses in
contested cases). Payment may be in instalments and may end at a time specified by the local
authority.
572 </li>
573 </ol>
574 <p>
574 Adoption Allowances are described in the 2005 Regulations. This allowance is in addition to any
state benefit an adopter may be eligible for such as Child Benefit.
574 </p>
575 <p>
575 Financial support is intended to supplement existing means of support available to adoptive
parents and the child or children being adopted where necessary and where the criteria for support
are met. Adopters must be given advice of entitlements to benefits, tax credits and allowances,
and these must be taken into account when considering eligibility for financial support.
575 </p>
576 <p>
576 All adopters will be asked to complete a Financial Assessment Form.
576 </p>
577 <h4 id="criteria">
577 9.5 Criteria / Eligibility / When can an Adoption Allowance be Paid?
577 </h4>
578 <p>
578 The 2005 Regulations set out that there must be no reward element in financial payments other than
as a transitional provision for foster carers adopting a child for whom they are currently caring.
578 </p>
579 <p>
579 An adoption allowance can be paid from the date of the placement for adoption or from a later
date.
579 </p>
580 <p>
580 In deciding how much, if any, adoption allowance to pay, Bexley must take into account any other
grant, benefit, allowance or resource which is available to adopters as a result of the adoption.
For example, Disability Living Allowances (DLA), nursery grants, child benefit, etc. Financial
support from Bexley must not duplicate financial support via the benefits and tax credit system.
The amount of financial support provided in individual cases is a matter for Bexley to determine
through the assessment process.
580 </p>
581 <p>
581 In addition, Bexley must take account of:
581 </p>
582 <p>
582 Adopter's financial resources, including any benefits or tax credits that would be available to
them if the child lived with them and any investments of the (prospective) Adopter(s); and
582 </p>
583 <ul>
584 <li>
584 Adopter's financial resources, including any benefits or tax credits that would be available to
them if the child lived with them and any investments of the (prospective) Adopter(s); and
584 </li>
585 <li>
585 Adopter's reasonable outgoings and commitments excluding outgoings in respect of the child; and
585 </li>
586 <li>
586 The financial needs and resources of the child.
586 </li>
587 </ul>
588 <p>
588 However, Bexley will disregard the factors listed in the three bullet points above if the
allowance is for legal costs or to cover the costs involved in introducing adopters to the child.
588 </p>
589 <p>
589 Financial support is payable to an adoptive parent for the purpose of supporting the placement of
the adoptive child or the continuation of adoption arrangements after an adoption order is made.
589 </p>
590 <p>
590 If it is established that the child has needs requiring additional financial support it is only
then that the adopter's financial circumstances will come into consideration.
590 </p>
591 <p>
591 <span class="bold">
591 An adoption allowance/financial support may be provided to adoptive parents in the following
circumstances:
591 </span>
591 </p>
592 <ol style="list-style-type:lower-alpha">
593 <li>
593 Where it is necessary to ensure that the adoptive parent can look after the adoptive child; for
example where it is considered to be in the child's best interest for a parent to remain at home
for a specified period after placement;
593 </li>
594 <li>
594 Where the child needs special care which requires greater expenditure of resources by reason of
illness, disability, emotional or behavioural difficulties or the continuing consequences of
past abuse or neglect; an assessment of the child's needs will be undertaken to consider whether
an allowance or one off payment is appropriate. Payment under this category is intended where
the child's condition is serious and long term;
594 </li>
595 <li>
595 Where Bexley needs to make special arrangements to facilitate the placement or the adoption
because of:
596 <ol style="list-style-type:lower-roman">
597 <li>
597 The age or ethnic origin of the child; or
597 </li>
598 <li>
598 The desirability of the child being placed with the brother or sister (whether full blood or
half blood) or with a child with whom the child previously shared a home.
598 </li>
599 </ol>
600 In the above circumstances an assessment of the child/children's needs will be undertaken to
consider whether an allowance is appropriate;
600 </li>
601 <li>
601 Where such support is to meet recurring travel costs for the purpose of visits between the child
and a related person; i.e. post adoption contact;
601 </li>
602 <li>
602 Where it is considered appropriate to make a contribution to meet the following:
603 <ol style="list-style-type:lower-roman">
604 <li>
604 Expenditure on legal costs, including fees payable to a court in relation to an adoption;
Bexley will pay the Court fee in all cases and will consider whether it is appropriate to
fund legal advice in a contested leave or adoption application or if it is necessary for the
adopters to be represented in court. Any agreement as to payment of legal costs (other than
the Court fee) will be determined after discussion with Bexley Legal Services;
604 </li>
605 <li>
605 Travelling expenses for adopters during the period of introductions will be paid using
public transport rates. If it is necessary for adopters to incur accommodation costs to
facilitate the process, consideration will be given to reimbursing these at the equivalent
of Travel Lodge rates;
605 </li>
606 <li>
606 Expenditure necessary for the purpose of accommodating and maintaining the child, including
the provision of furniture and domestic equipment, alterations to and adaptations of the
home, provision of means of transport and provision of clothing, toys and other items
necessary for the purpose of looking after the child. This will be considered on a case by
case basis dependent on the need of the child/children and in all circumstances Bexley will
require proof of expenditure or at least two quotes in respected of proposed expenditure
before payment can be made.
606 </li>
607 </ol>
608 </li>
609 </ol>
610 <h4 id="types">
610 9.6 Types of Payment
610 </h4>
611 <h5>
611 Adoption allowances
611 </h5>
612 <p>
612 Where the Adoption Support Assessment identifies a support need that requires on-going financial
expenditure, consideration will be given to paying the adoptive parent an adoption allowance.
612 </p>
613 <p>
613 Bexley will use the DfE Standardised Means Test to determine the level of financial support
provided to each applicant where an adoption allowance will be paid.
613 </p>
614 <p>
614 If there is disagreement between the family and the Head of Service as to the level of adoption
allowance to be paid, the case will be referred to the Director of Children's Services to make the
final decision.
614 </p>
615 <p>
615 Where the payment is to meet the child's special needs and where the child's condition is serious
and long term, the payment will not be means tested.
615 </p>
616 <h5>
616 Single payments
616 </h5>
617 <p>
617 Single payments of financial support may be provided in cases where the identified need does not
require on-going expenditure. Single payments can be one off payments or paid by instalment where
the Council and adoptive parent agree.
617 </p>
618 <h5>
618 Remuneration for former foster parents
618 </h5>
619 <p>
619 Financial support will be paid to foster carers in the form of 'remuneration' in the following
cases:
619 </p>
620 <ul>
621 <li>
621 Where the decision to include it has been made before the adoption order is made and the support
assessment considers it to be necessary;
621 </li>
622 <li>
622 Where the adoptive parent has been a local authority foster parent to the child and they
received remuneration in their foster care payments whilst fostering the child.
622 </li>
623 </ul>
624 <p>
624 No other payments will be made in excess of the fostering allowance - this includes Birthday and
Christmas allowances.
624 </p>
625 <p>
625 The remuneration element of the financial support will cease at the end of 2 years from the
adoption order unless Bexley consider its continuation to be necessary having regard to the
exceptional needs of the child or any other exceptional circumstances.
625 </p>
626 <p>
626 The remuneration element will only be payable where it has been agreed by the Director of
Children's Services that adoption through the foster carers was the only practicable way to
achieve permanence for the child. For example, where the proposed adoption is for a child where
adopters could easily have been identified, the remuneration element would not be payable.
626 </p>
627 <p>
627 For foster carers from independent fostering agencies, the overall payment for the first 2 years
would be the amount that they would receive as Bexley foster carers from the date of approval of
the match for adoption.
627 </p>
628 <p>
628 Child Benefit and Child Tax Credits will be deducted from the remuneration element of the
financial support.
628 </p>
629 <p>
629 After 2 years an assessment of the child and adoptive family's support needs will be undertaken
using the Framework for the Assessment of Children in Need and Their Families and related practice
guidance to determine eligibility for an adoption allowance.
629 </p>
630 <h4 id="assess">
630 9.7 Assessment of Financial Support
630 </h4>
631 <p>
631 The need for financial support will be determined as part of the Adoption Support Services
assessment, from which a support plan is devised. The assessment is carried out under the
Framework of the Assessment of Children in Need and their Families and related guidance. This
includes providing the prospective adopter with a copy of the draft support plan and an
opportunity to comment on the draft plan before it is submitted to Panel.
631 </p>
632 <p>
632 If a decision is made that it is appropriate for an adoption allowance to be paid and in
determining the level of financial support to be paid, Bexley must take account of any other
grant, benefit, allowance or resource which is available to the person; as financial support paid
under the terms of the Adoption Support Regulations cannot duplicate any other payment available
to the adoptive parents.
632 </p>
633 <p>
633 An Adoption Financial Support Application Form must then be completed by the adopter in order to
declare all relevant income and expenditure as required for means tested financial support
provided by the London Borough of Bexley (see
633 <a href="#appendices">
633 Appendix 1: Adoption Financial Support Application Form
633 </a>
633 ).
633 </p>
634 <p>
634 The adopters will be asked to provide proof of finances and income (e.g. bank statements). The
completed form should be forwarded to the adoption social worker or Team Manager in Adoption. The
Adoption Head of Service will decide the level of support to be included in the Adoption Support
Plan, and obtain budgetary approval as necessary depending on the amount.
634 </p>
635 <p>
635 In relation to proposed financial support for a new placement, the Adoption Support Plan will be
submitted to the Adoption Panel with the Adoption Placement Report when a matching recommendation
is being considered.
635 </p>
636 <h4 id="notification">
636 9.8 Notification
636 </h4>
637 <p>
637 Before Bexley makes any decision as to whether to provide financial support reasonable notice of
the proposed decision must be given to the adopter(s) or prospective adopter(s) to enable them to
make representations in response.
637 </p>
638 <p>
638 The notice must contain the following information:
638 </p>
639 <ol style="list-style-type:lower-roman">
640 <li>
640 A statement as to the person's needs for adoption support services;
640 </li>
641 <li>
641 Where the assessment relates to their need for financial support, the basis upon which the
financial support is determined;
641 </li>
642 <li>
642 Whether Bexley propose to provide them with adoption support services;
642 </li>
643 <li>
643 The services they propose to provide;
643 </li>
644 <li>
644 If financial support is to be paid the proposed amount payable;
644 </li>
645 <li>
645 Any proposed conditions;
645 </li>
646 <li>
646 An adoption support plan;
646 </li>
647 <li>
647 Information about annual reviews (see
647 <a href="#appendices">
647 Appendix 2: Adoption Allowance Payment Offer
647 </a>
647 and
647 <a href="#appendices">
647 Appendix 3: Adoption Allowance Agreement
647 </a>
647 ).
647 </li>
648 </ol>
649 <p>
649 Bexley will not make a decision until representations have been made or the local authority has
been notified that the adopter(s) is satisfied with the proposed decision, or the period of time
for representations has expired. Any representations will need to be made within a reasonable
period of time and no more than 28 days after notification of the decision in respect of financial
support has been provided to the adopters/prospective adopters.
649 </p>
650 <h4 id="condition">
650 9.9 Conditions
650 </h4>
651 <p>
651 If it is decided that financial support should be given to adoptive parents, payment will be
subject to statutory conditions.
651 </p>
652 <p>
652 Prior to making financial support available to prospective or adoptive parents, the prospective or
adoptive parent(s) will be required to confirm to Bexley immediately in writing:
652 </p>
653 <ol>
654 <li>
654 Of changes to their home address;
654 </li>
655 <li>
655 If the child dies;
655 </li>
656 <li>
656 If the child (for any reason) no longer lives with them;
656 </li>
657 <li>
657 If the child ceases full-time education or training and commences employment;
657 </li>
658 <li>
658 If the child qualifies for universal credit, income support, employment and support allowance,
jobseeker's allowance or any other credit or allowance in his own right;
658 </li>
659 <li>
659 If there are any changes to their financial situation/the resources of the child.
659 </li>
660 </ol>
661 <p>
661 Where information regarding the above changes in circumstances is given orally, adoptive parents
must confirm this in writing within 7 days.
661 </p>
662 <p>
662 Prior to making support available, the prospective or adoptive parents will also be required to
confirm to Bexley in writing that they will complete and supply Bexley with an annual statement as
per the below section regarding Annual Review of Support. Should adoptive parents fail to comply
with the requirements, the authority may suspend payment of the financial support provided.
662 </p>
663 <h4 id="annual">
663 9.10 Annual Review of Support
663 </h4>
664 <p>
664 The annual review of each adoption allowance will be carried out by the Adoption Team. All cases
will be reviewed annually. An application form will be sent out a few weeks before the review
date, and must be returned with all proofs of income and expenditure by the deadline date.
Financial support will be reassessed with effect from the date of review. If the form is not
returned by the deadline, financial support may cease and may not be backdated to the review date.
664 </p>
665 <p>
665 If the Review results in a recommendation for the adoption allowance to be increased, decreased,
suspended or terminated, it must be referred to the Adoption Team Manager for consideration as to
whether or not a visit to the adoptive family is required; before referring to the Head of Service
to make a final decision.
665 </p>
666 <p>
666 If the decision about the prevailing rate, or change of rate, is difficult to make, a report will
be requested from another professional, e.g. a consultant paediatrician, a psychologist, a person
seeing a child on a regular basis.
666 </p>
667 <p>
667 Once an adoption allowance is determined the family circumstances can be reviewed at a time other
than at the annual review. This is in recognition that from time to time, there may be a major
change either in the needs of the child or family circumstances which could have a significant
impact on their ability to continue to adequately meet the needs of the child. This provision is
not intended to be used solely to supplement a change in income of the adoptive family.
667 </p>
668 <p>
668 A record of all adoption allowances will be kept by the Adoption Team together with a report of
any medical or psychological condition.
668 </p>
669 <p>
669 The annual assessment of the child's needs will consider whether the criteria for an adoption
allowance continue to be met. The Adoption Team will send the adopters a Review of Child's Needs
Form (see
669 <a href="#appendices">
669 Appendix 4: Letter – Adoption Allowance Review of Child's Needs
669 </a>
669 ) to complete together with the Financial Support Application form (see
669 <a href="#appendices">
669 Appendix 1: Adoption Financial Support Application Form
669 </a>
669 ).
669 </p>
670 <p>
670 On an annual basis, the adopters should confirm the following within the appendices and provide
supporting evidence as to:
670 </p>
671 <ol>
672 <li>
672 Their financial circumstances;
672 </li>
673 <li>
673 The financial needs and resources of the child or children;
673 </li>
674 <li>
674 Their home address and whether or not the child or children live at home with them;
674 </li>
675 <li>
675 If there have been any changes to their own, or the child's/children's circumstances.
675 </li>
676 </ol>
677 <p>
677 The Adoption Team will carry out an annual review of the information provided in respect of the
child's needs. It may be necessary to carry out a full assessment of need of the child in some
circumstances. The Post Adoption Team will then complete the Post Adoption Support Assessment of
Need – (see
677 <a href="#appendices">
677 Appendix 5: Post Adoption Support Assessment of Need
677 </a>
677 ).
677 </p>
678 <p>
678 If the assessment of the child's needs determines that the criteria are met for the adoption
allowance to continue, then a review of finances will take place to calculate the amount, if any,
of financial support that may be offered. Any proposed variation or termination of the financial
support must be notified to the person(s) concerned and dealt with by the Adoption Team Manager.
The adopters will receive a Review of Adoption Allowance letter (see
678 <a href="#appendices">
678 Appendix 6: Outcome of Adoption Allowance Review Letter
678 </a>
678 ) and a revised Agreement for the Payment of an Adoption Allowance (see
678 <a href="#appendices">
678 Appendix 3: Adoption Allowance Agreement
678 </a>
678 ).
678 </p>
679 <p>
679 Any decision to vary or terminate payment may result in Bexley considering whether it is
appropriate to seek to recover all or any of the financial support already paid. This may be
necessary when the adopter has failed to notify Bexley in writing of any change in circumstances.
679 </p>
680 <p>
680 Should adoptive parents fail to supply an annual statement; the authority will send a written
reminder and give them 28 days to comply. If they fail to comply, the authority may suspend
payment of the financial support provided.
680 </p>
681 <p>
681 Before Bexley makes any decision as to whether to provide financial support, reasonable notice of
the proposed decision must be given to the adopter(s) or prospective adopter(s) to enable them to
make representations in response.
681 </p>
682 <p>
682 The notice must contain the following information:
682 </p>
683 <ol style="list-style-type:lower-roman">
684 <li>
684 A statement as to the person's needs for adoption support services;
684 </li>
685 <li>
685 Where the assessment relates to their need for financial support, the basis upon which the
financial support is determined;
685 </li>
686 <li>
686 Whether Bexley propose to provide them with adoption support services;
686 </li>
687 <li>
687 The services they propose to provide;
687 </li>
688 <li>
688 If financial support is to be paid the proposed amount payable; and
688 </li>
689 <li>
689 Any proposed conditions.
689 </li>
690 </ol>
691 <p>
691 Bexley will not make a decision until representations have been made or the local authority has
been notified that the prospective adopter(s)/adopter(s) is satisfied with the proposed decision;
or the period of time for representations has expired.
691 </p>
692 <p>
692 If there is disagreement between the local authority and the adopters as to the level of adoption
allowance to be paid, following the review, the case will be referred to the Head of Service.
692 </p>
693 <h4 id="suspension">
693 9.11 Suspension of Allowances
693 </h4>
694 <p>
694 The suspension of an allowance is an appropriate and reasonable response to a failure by, the
adopters to not provide a completed Review of Child's Needs form (see
694 <a href="#appendices">
694 Appendix 4: Letter – Adoption Allowance Review of Child's Needs
694 </a>
694 ) and a completed Financial Support Application Form (see
694 <a href="#appendices">
694 Appendix 1: Adoption Financial Support Application Form
694 </a>
694 ) upon request. In the first instance, the decision as to suspension will be determined by the
Head of Service for up to a maximum period of 3 months. Unresolved suspensions beyond the 3 month
period will be referred to the Director of Children's Services.
694 </p>
695 <p>
695 Where an adoptive parent does not provide the required completed financial forms Bexley will not
suspend the allowance until:
695 </p>
696 <ul>
697 <li>
697 The adoptive parent has been sent a written reminder of the need to provide an annual statement;
and
697 </li>
698 <li>
698 28 days have expired since the date on which the notice was sent.
698 </li>
699 </ul>
700 <h4 id="ending">
700 9.12 Ending of Financial Support
700 </h4>
701 <p>
701 Financial support will end in the following circumstances:
701 </p>
702 <ol>
703 <li>
703 When a child reaches age 18, unless they continue in full time education or training when
support may continue until the end of the course of education or training being undertaken,
subject to any other financial support the child may be entitled to receive;
703 </li>
704 <li>
704 Where a child ceases full-time education or training and commences employment;
704 </li>
705 <li>
705 Where a child qualifies for income support or job seekers allowance in their own right;
705 </li>
706 <li>
706 Where circumstances have changed significantly and the criteria are no longer met;
706 </li>
707 <li>
707 If a child leaves the adoptive home and this is regarded as a permanent departure;
707 </li>
708 <li>
708 Temporary absences do not apply, e.g. boarding school, hospital, and respite care;
708 </li>
709 <li>
709 The child dies.
709 </li>
710 </ol>
711 <p>
711 Financial support will also end if the assessment of the child's needs concludes that the criteria
for the allowance are no longer met or where the specified period for payment agreed at the outset
comes to an end.
711 </p>
712 <p>
712 Please address all correspondence or appeals to:
712 </p>
713 <p>
713 <span class="bold">
713 Bexley Adoption Team Manager
713 </span>
713 <br>
714 Bexley Civic Offices
714 <br>
715 2 Watling Street
715 <br>
716 Bexleyheath
716 <br>
717 DA6 7AT
717 </p>
718 <h3 id="appendices">
718 Appendices
718 </h3>
719 <p>
719 The appendices for this chapter are currently located on the Bexley local directory.
719 </p>
720 <ul>
721 <li>
721 Appendix 1: Adoption Financial Support Application Form;
721 </li>
722 <li>
722 Appendix 2: Adoption Allowance Payment Offer;
722 </li>
723 <li>
723 Appendix 3: Adoption Allowance Agreement;
723 </li>
724 <li>
724 Appendix 4: Letter – Adoption Allowance Review of Child's Needs;
724 </li>
725 <li>
725 Appendix 5: Post Adoption Support Assessment of Need;
725 </li>
726 <li>
726 Appendix 6: Outcome of Adoption Allowance Review Letter.
726 </li>
727 </ul>
728 <p>
728 To access the appendices, please see:
728 <span class="italic">
728 N:\Directorate of Social & Community Services\Children & Families\Strategies Policies
& Procedures\Adoption and Permanence
728 </span>
728 </p>
729 </div>
732 </main>
733 </div>
736 <footer>
737 <div class="footer">
738 <div>
739 <p>
739 <a href="privacypolicy.html">
739 Privacy Policy
739 </a>
739 <br>
740 <span style="font-size:small;">
741 <span id='desktop_button' tabindex='0'>
741 Desktop
741 </span>
741 |
741 <span id='mobile_button' tabindex='0'>
741 Mobile
741 </span>
741 |
741 <span id='responsive_button' tabindex='0' style='text-decoration:underline'>
741 Responsive
741 </span>
741 </span>
741 </p>
743 <div id="trix_logo">
744 <a href="https://www.trixonline.co.uk/" target="_blank" class="imagelink">
744 <img src="images/trixlogo.png" height="40" alt="Tri.x Logo links to Tri.x homepage"/>
744 </a>
745 </div>
746 </div>
747 </div>
749 </footer>
750 <div id="desktoptest">
750 </div>
751 <script>
878 </script>
880 <script>
889 </script>
891 <script>
938 </script>
941 <script>
943 </script>
951 <script>
990 </script>
991 <script type="text/javascript">
991 </script>
993 <script>
1032 </script>
1036 <script type="text/javascript">
1048 </script>
1049 </body>
1050 </html>