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282 <h2>
282 Relinquished Children
282 </h2>
284 </div>
287 <div id="scope_box">
288 <h3>
288 SCOPE OF THIS CHAPTER
288 </h3>
289 <p>
289 The term 'relinquished child' is used to describe a child, usually a baby or at pre-birth stage,
whose parents are making the choice of adoption for the child.
289 </p>
290 <p>
290 This chapter deals with the
290 <span class="bold">
290 first stages
290 </span>
290 of the adoption process for relinquished children, whilst signposting other key processes that
should be progressed and which are expected for any child who is Accommodated or where the plan is
for adoption. It also summarises the counselling and support that will be made available to the
birth family in these circumstances. Once a decision is made and consent is formally given,
although not irreversible, the adoption process is as for any other child.
290 </p>
291 <p>
291 Therefore, this chapter should be read in conjunction with the Related Chapters.
291 </p>
292 <h3>
292 RELATED GUIDANCE
292 </h3>
293 <p>
293 <a
href="https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/270100/adoption_st
atutory_guidance_2013.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
293 Statutory Guidance on Adoption (July 2013)
293 </a>
293 </p>
294 <p>
294 <a href="files/cafcass_adcs_relinquished_adopt.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
294 ADCS, Good Practice Guidance for Adoption Agencies and Cafcass: Children Relinquished for
Adoption
294 </a>
294 </p>
295 <h3>
295 RELATED CHAPTERS
295 </h3>
296 <p>
296 <a href="p_foster_for_adopt.html">
296 Fostering for Adoption, Concurrent Planning and Temporary Approval as Foster Carers of Approved
Prospective Adopters Procedure
296 </a>
296 </p>
297 <p>
297 <a href="p_place_adop.html">
297 Placement For Adoption Procedure
297 </a>
297 </p>
298 <p>
298 <a href="g_court_rept.html#place_order">
298 Court Reports in Placement Order Applications and in Adoption/Special Guardianship Guidance
298 </a>
298 </p>
299 <h3>
299 AMENDMENT
299 </h3>
300 <p>
300 <a href="#consent">
300 Section 5, Consent and Competency
300 </a>
300 was updated in October 2018 to include additional information on parental capacity to consent, in
line with High Court case-law.
300 </p>
301 </div>
302 <div id="sections">
304 <h3 id="sections_list">
304 Contents
304 </h3>
305 <ol>
306 <li>
306 <a href="#intro">
306 Introduction
306 </a>
306 </li>
307 <li>
307 <a href="#referrral">
307 Referral
307 </a>
307 </li>
308 <li>
308 <a href="#conselling">
308 Counselling
308 </a>
308 </li>
309 <li>
309 <a href="#birth_father">
309 The Birth Father
309 </a>
309 </li>
310 <li>
310 <a href="#consent">
310 Consent and Competency
310 </a>
310 </li>
311 <li>
311 <a href="#decision">
311 Decision of the Local Authority
311 </a>
311 </li>
312 <li>
312 <a href="#withdraw">
312 Parent(s) Withdraw Their Consent or Change Their Plan for the Child
312 </a>
312 </li>
313 <li>
313 <a href="#adopt_panel">
313 Adoption Panel
313 </a>
313 </li>
314 <li>
314 <a href="#cafcass">
314 CAFCASS - Including Relevant Forms
314 </a>
314 </li>
315 </ol>
316 <h3 id="intro">
316 1. Introduction
316 </h3>
317 <p>
317 All local authorities have a statutory duty to respond to a request from a parent or guardian for
their child to be placed for adoption, and a separate process to progress this, at least in the
initial stages, outside of the Care Proceedings process is established in
317 <a href="http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2002/38/part/1/chapter/3" target="_blank"
rel="noopener">
317 Part 3 of the Adoption and Children Act 2002
317 </a>
317 .
317 </p>
318 <p>
318 Working with a request for a child to be relinquished will be challenging for many practitioners
on the basis that most children's best interest is served by being with their parent and it will
be important to ascertain the reasons why the mother sees the best interest for her child in this
way and to offer challenges to this through a counselling process. (See
318 <a href="#conselling">
318 Section 3, Counselling
318 </a>
318 ).
318 </p>
319 <p>
319 Throughout this process it will remain important:
319 </p>
320 <ul>
321 <li>
321 That the child's welfare and best interests remains paramount;
321 </li>
322 <li>
322 To ensure there is minimal delay in securing the child's permanent future plan, and therefore,
322 </li>
323 <li>
323 Referrals to Cafcass, the Adoption Placements Team and, if required a Placements Application
Order, together with completion of all necessary documentation are made in a timely way;
323 </li>
324 <li>
324 That effective counselling is offered to the parent(s) with regard to the decision; and,
325 <ul>
326 <li>
326 Clear consideration is given to the parent(s) competency to make the decision;
326 </li>
327 <li>
327 The parent(s) are fully aware of their rights and options throughout the process with regard
to the child.
327 </li>
328 </ul>
329 </li>
330 <li>
330 That the practitioner remains in contact with the parent for as long as possible to 'get to
know' the parent(s) so as to be able to provide information for the child later in their life;
330 </li>
331 <li>
331 Children's Social Services should seek to ensure that, following a request for a child to be
relinquished, the matter should be transferred to the appropriate team best able to work with
the parent/guardian and progress the child's plan as soon as possible. This may mean
transferring such matters outside of the mainstream 'Transfer of Cases' policy and procedure.
331 </li>
332 </ul>
333 <h3 id="referrral">
333 2. Referral
333 </h3>
334 <p>
334 Referrals will be received via the
334 <a href="p_contacts_referral.html">
334 Contacts and Referrals Procedure
334 </a>
334 and should be dealt with promptly. Requests may be self referrals or come from a GP, Midwife,
school, other health professional or family member, etc.
334 </p>
335 <p>
335 As much information as possible should be taken at this initial stage about the parent(s) and
their circumstances, but must be balanced with a need for sensitivity and an understanding that
key areas will be dealt with through the counselling process that will be required. (See
335 <a href="#conselling">
335 Section 3, Counselling
335 </a>
335 ).
335 </p>
336 <p>
336 The practitioner dealing with the request should bring the matter to the Team Manager's attention
so that the referral can be dealt with promptly by an appropriately skilled and experienced
practitioner with relevant knowledge of adoption. The allocated practitioner will undertake a
joint visit with the adoption team to ensure the process proceeds in a sensitive and timely
manner.
336 </p>
337 <h3 id="conselling">
337 3. Counselling
337 </h3>
338 <p>
338 Counselling should be undertaken as promptly as possible following the referral, by an experienced
practitioner who has knowledge and skills in adoption, and include a discussion about the issues
adoption brings for both the parent/guardian and the child.
338 </p>
339 <h4>
339 3.1 Assessing the Parent
339 </h4>
340 <p>
340 The practitioner counselling the parent/guardian should ensure that they:
340 </p>
341 <ul>
342 <li>
342 Understand the reason(s) why the parent/guardian is seeking to place the child for adoption;
342 </li>
343 <li>
343 Consider the parent/guardian's general situation and circumstances;
343 </li>
344 <li>
344 Are aware of the position of the birth father (see
344 <a href="#birth_father">
344 Section 4, Birth Father
344 </a>
344 );
344 </li>
345 <li>
345 Are aware of any communication requirements:
346 <ul>
347 <li>
347 As a result of a physical or learning disability;
347 </li>
348 <li>
348 English being a second language.
348 </li>
349 </ul>
350 </li>
351 <li>
351 Are aware of any issues around literacy skills the mother may have;
351 </li>
352 <li>
352 Identify any cultural issues;
352 </li>
353 <li>
353 Know of any physical or learning disabilities that are impacting upon the circumstances;
353 </li>
354 <li>
354 Recognise any immigration concerns;
354 </li>
355 <li>
355 Identify any other issues that may appear to the practitioner to be relevant.
355 <br />
356 (See also
356 <a href="#consent">
356 Section 5, Consent and Competency
356 </a>
356 ).
356 </li>
357 </ul>
358 <h4>
358 3.2 Options and Alternatives to Adoption
358 </h4>
359 <p>
359 Counselling should ensure that the parent/guardian has considered the options:
359 </p>
360 <ul>
361 <li>
361 Staying with the parent/guardian, with close support where possible;
361 </li>
362 <li>
362 Where the baby and mother are accommodated with foster carers, training and support to care for
the baby and mother to help her overcome her anxiety and develop her parenting skills and
confidence so that she is able to care for the child;
362 </li>
363 <li>
363 A foster to adopt placement;
363 </li>
364 <li>
364 Short-term foster care, with the aim of returning the child with support;
364 </li>
365 <li>
365 Long-term placement within the child's wider family (perhaps with a Child Arrangements Order);
365 </li>
366 <li>
366 Placement for adoption.
366 </li>
367 </ul>
368 <p>
368 <span class="bold">
368 Important note
368 </span>
368 : it is not mandatory, or a requirement, that family relatives are informed of the child's birth
or a proposed plan of adoption. In considering this, the Local Authority should discuss with the
parent(s)/guardian: the likely views of the extended family (grandparents, siblings etc.) and the
consequences of them both subsequently 'knowing' or 'not knowing' of the child's birth and plans
for adoption.
368 </p>
369 <h4 id="coun_adopt">
369 3.3 Counselling About Adoption
369 </h4>
370 <p>
370 Counselling the parent(s) should include providing information about adoption and gleaning
information that might be relevant for the child:
370 </p>
371 <ul>
372 <li>
372 The implications of adoption as being life-long for the child and the birth family / parents,
(see
372 <a href="http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2002/38/section/67" target="_blank"
rel="noopener">
372 Section 67 Adoption and Children Act 2002
372 </a>
372 );
372 </li>
373 <li>
373 The legal consequences of consenting to a placement for adoption (
373 <a href="http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2002/38/section/19" target="_blank"
rel="noopener">
373 Section 19
373 </a>
373 ); advance consent to a future adoption order (
373 <a href="http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2002/38/section/20" target="_blank"
rel="noopener">
373 Section 20
373 </a>
373 ); the withdrawal of these consents; the legal effect of adoption itself; the option of
indicating they do not want to be involved in future proceedings once Sections 19 and 20 have
been completed;
373 </li>
374 <li>
374 The issue of contact, especially contact after the placement for adoption has been made;
374 </li>
375 <li>
375 The need for the Local Authority to provide a '
375 <a href="g_later_life_lett.html">
375 Later Life Letter
375 </a>
375 ' and
375 <a href="g_life_story_book.html">
375 Life Story Book
375 </a>
375 for the child and to seek to involve the parent(s) in assisting with this (providing
information, photos etc);
375 </li>
376 <li>
376 An understanding from the parent of any known health issues/family medical history within their
family that might be relevant to the child - both physical, mental and emotional;
376 </li>
377 <li>
377 Whether the parent(s) want to be involved in a matching process;
377 </li>
378 <li>
378 Information about the rights of the child to obtain information about their birth parents once
they reach 18 years. and the possible implications of this for them as the parent;
378 </li>
379 <li>
379 The role of Cafcass in ensuring consent is provided unconditionally and that they have a full
understanding;
379 </li>
380 <li>
380 The availability (providing details) of independent counselling, information and support to the
parent(s) and their family;
380 </li>
381 <li>
381 Provision of written information about the adoption process (See '
381 <a href="local_resources.html#adoption">
381 Bexley - Has adoption been identified as the plan for your child?
381 </a>
381 ').
381 </li>
382 </ul>
383 <h3 id="birth_father">
383 4. The Birth Father
383 </h3>
384 <p>
384 Without Parental Responsibility, the birth father is not entitled to provide consent to a
placement for adoption.
384 </p>
385 <p>
385 If the mother is not married, the practitioner should check the birth certificate of the child to
identify whether the birth father has acquired Parental Responsibility as a result of being named
on the child's birth certificate.
385 </p>
386 <p>
386 The practitioner should seek if possible to understand the father's identity from the birth
mother, including:
386 </p>
387 <ul>
388 <li>
388 His address;
388 </li>
389 <li>
389 Any known wishes or feelings;
389 </li>
390 <li>
390 If the father is seeking to acquire Parental Responsibility;
390 </li>
391 <li>
391 If Parental Responsibility is acquired, his potential rights and any part he may wish to play in
the process.
391 </li>
392 </ul>
393 <p>
393 However, the law does not force a mother to divulge the identity of a father who does not have
Parental Responsibility and the legislation does not impose a duty to make enquiries of a father
without Parental Responsibility, or his family.
393 </p>
394 <h4>
394 4.1 Involving the Birth Father Without Parental Responsibility
394 </h4>
395 <p>
395 There is no duty on a Local Authority as an Adoption Agency to make enquiries of a father without
Parental Responsibility, or his family, unless this is in the best interests of the child.
395 </p>
396 <p>
396 If the identity of the birth father becomes known, the practitioner, with the Team Manager, should
decide if it is practicable and consistent with the child's welfare, to provide him with
information and counselling and to ascertain whether he wishes to obtain Parental Responsibility
and/or Child Arrangements Order.
396 </p>
397 <p>
397 In making this decision, the practitioner must balance:
397 </p>
398 <ul>
399 <li>
399 The principle that the welfare of the child is paramount;
399 </li>
400 <li>
400 The nature of the child's relationship with the father;
400 </li>
401 <li>
401 The nature and extent of the father's relationship with the child's mother and any siblings of
the child;
401 </li>
402 <li>
402 Whether it would be contrary to Article 8 (Right to family life) of the European Convention on
Human Rights to prevent disclosure of the birth of a child to a child's father;
402 </li>
403 <li>
403 The mother's wishes for the child;
403 </li>
404 <li>
404 The mother's right to confidentiality;
404 </li>
405 <li>
405 The avoidance of unnecessary delay.
405 </li>
406 </ul>
407 <h4>
407 4.2 Birth Fathers Who Acquire Parental Responsibility
407 </h4>
408 <p>
408 Where a birth father acquires Parental Responsibility and the mother has already consented to
adoption, and the child has been placed for adoption, (under
408 <a href="http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2002/38/section/19" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
408 Section 19, Adoption and Children Act 2002
408 </a>
408 ), it is considered that the father has also consented to the placement for adoption. However, the
birth father can then withdraw his consent, provided he does so before an application has been
made to court for an Adoption Order.
408 </p>
409 <p>
409 However, where the Local Authority wish to continue with the adoptive placement, a placement order
application must be applied for. (
409 <span class="bold">
409 Note
409 </span>
409 : where the application is before the court, there is no obligation for the Local Authority to
return the child to either parent).
409 </p>
410 <p>
410 (See:
410 <a href="g_court_rept.html#place_order">
410 Court Reports in Placement Order Applications and in Adoption/Special Guardianship Guidance,
Placement Order Application
410 </a>
410 ).
410 </p>
411 <p>
411 As with the mother and birth father without Parental Responsibility, the father's extended family
have the same legal position, i.e. it is at the discretion of the Local Authority as to whether
contacting them is appropriate. (See Important Note in
411 <a href="#conselling">
411 Section 3, Counselling
411 </a>
411 ).
411 </p>
412 <h3 id="consent">
412 5. Consent and Competency
412 </h3>
413 <p>
413 The Local Authority as the Adoption Agency must be sure that the parent or the guardian is
competent to give consent.
413 </p>
414 <p>
414 During the counselling sessions, care should be given to identifying whether the parent(s) are
capable of giving consent, especially if there is evidence of: learning disabilities; mental
health issues; cultural, ethnic or faith issues; consent being given conditionally, etc.
414 </p>
415 <p>
415 Where there is concern as to the parent's understanding, an additional and specialist assessment
should be sought from another professional - preferably someone who already knows the parent, such
as an approved mental health social worker; a disabilities social worker; GP; midwife or health
visitor; psychiatrist / psychologist or someone who can offer a faith or cultural perspective.
415 </p>
416 <p>
416 If the issue of competency is known at the point of referral or at an early stage in the process,
then the Local Authority should not ask Cafcass to witness consent, until any such issues are
resolved. Where a parent is under 18 years (i.e. considered to be a 'child' themselves within the
meaning of the Children Act 1989), they can be considered to give valid consent if assessed as
competent by the counselling practitioner.
416 </p>
417 <p>
417 The High Court in Re
417 <a href="http://www.familylawweek.co.uk/site.aspx?i=ed182616" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
417 S (Child as parent: Adoption: Consent) [2017] EWHC 2729 (Fam)
417 </a>
417 made clear that parental Capacity to consent to a child being accommodated under s.20 Children Act
1989, does not equate to their capacity to consent to an adoption order in respect of the child -
the capacity to consent is decision-specific. (That case concerned a 'child parent' (i.e. below 18
years of age) with learning disabilities. The principles, however, will be of relevance in
considering parental capacity, irrespective of their age).
417 </p>
418 <p>
418 The court set out the salient or 'sufficient' information which is required to be understood by a
parent regarding extra-familial adoption:
418 </p>
419 <ol style="list-style-type:lower-alpha">
420 <li>
420 Your child will have new legal parents, and will no longer be your son or daughter in law;
420 </li>
421 <li>
421 Adoption is final, and non-reversible;
421 </li>
422 <li>
422 During the process, other people (including social workers from the adoption agency) will be
making decisions for the child, including who can see the child, and with whom the child will
live;
422 </li>
423 <li>
423 You may obtain legal advice if you wish before taking the decision;
423 </li>
424 <li>
424 The child will live with a different family forever; you will (probably) not be able to choose
the adopters;
424 </li>
425 <li>
425 You will have no right to see your child or have contact with your child; it is highly likely
that direct contact with your child will cease, and any indirect contact will be limited;
425 </li>
426 <li>
426 The child may later trace you, but contact will only be re-established if the child wants this;
426 </li>
427 <li>
427 There are generally two stages to adoption; the child being placed with another family for
adoption, and being formally adopted;
427 </li>
428 <li>
428 For a limited period of time you may change your mind; once placed for adoption, your right to
change your mind is limited, and is lost when an adoption order is made.
428 </li>
429 </ol>
430 <p>
430 When determining the competence of a parent in these circumstances, 'all practicable steps' must
be taken to help them to make the decision, for example using simple language, visual aids
or other means. A parent will be treated as understanding the information relevant to a decision
if they are able to understand an explanation of it given to them in a way which is appropriate to
their circumstances.
430 </p>
431 <p>
431 The decision to consent to adoption is significant and life-changing. Before exercising their
decision-making, the parent should freely and fully understand the information set out on the
consent forms, which should be conveyed and explained to them in an appropriate way; there is no
expectation that the parent would be able to understand the precise language of the consent
forms.
431 </p>
432 If there is any doubt about the competence of a parent to give consent to adoption or placement for
adoption, the issue should be referred to a court.
433 <p>
433 Where it is considered that the parent is not capable of giving informed consent but the Local
Authority decide to place the child for adoption following their counselling and assessment, an
application for a Placement Order must be made. (See
433 <a href="http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2002/38/section/22" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
433 Section 22(1) Adoption and Children Act 2002
433 </a>
433 ).
433 </p>
434 <p>
434 (See also
434 <a href="g_court_rept.html#place_order">
434 Court Reports in Placement Order Applications and in Adoption/Special Guardianship Guidance,
Placement Order Application
434 </a>
434 ).
434 </p>
435 <h3 id="decision">
435 6. Decision of the Local Authority
435 </h3>
436 <p>
436 Following the counselling stage and if the parent(s) continue to express their need for the child
to be adopted, a decision to proceed to Adoption Panel for the child to be considered for adoption
as a relinquished child should be made by the appropriate Children's Social Services Officer.
(Note however, that it is the Adoption Panel recommendation and the Adoption Agency Decision Maker
that will confirm the plan for the child).
436 </p>
437 <p>
437 In addition the Local Authority need to inform the Cafcass office (closest to the
parent(s)/guardian's address). (See
437 <a href="files/cafcass_adcs_relinquished_adopt.pdf#page=12" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
437 Letter 1: Advanced Notification of the child to be relinquished for adoption: Sections 19 and 20
Adoption Children Act 2002
437 </a>
437 ).
437 </p>
438 <p>
438 See also:
438 </p>
439 <ul>
440 <li>
440 <a href="p_dec_look_aft.html">
440 Decision to Look After and Care Planning Procedure
440 </a>
440 ;
440 </li>
441 <li>
441 <a href="#accm_ch">
441 Section 6.1.1, Accommodation of the Child
441 </a>
441 ;
441 </li>
442 <li>
442 <a href="#adopt_case">
442 Section 6.1.3, Adoption Case Record
442 </a>
442 .
442 </li>
443 </ul>
444 <h4>
444 6.1 Child Who is Already Born
444 </h4>
445 <p>
445 Where the child is already in the care of the parent(s), an assessment and decision should be
promptly made as to the point at which the child should be Accommodated, bearing in mind that
separation will impact upon the child's developing attachment; this could be 'positively' if the
parent(s)/guardian bond is poor, with the consequent impact upon the child's attachment. In many
circumstances, the child will be accommodated promptly under Section 20 (1989 Act) because of a
parent(s)/guardian's circumstances and wishes. (See
445 <a href="p_dec_look_aft.html">
445 Decision to Look After and Care Planning Procedure
445 </a>
445 ).
445 </p>
446 <p>
446 The parent should sign their consent to the placement for adoption - having been provided with all
relevant information in respect of adoption, contact and support for them and their family, (see
446 <a href="#coun_adopt">
446 Section 3.3, Counselling About Adoption
446 </a>
446 ).
446 </p>
447 <p>
447 When the matter has been presented to Adoption Panel and agreed by the Agency Decision Maker and
Cafcass have completed their role, an adoptive placement should be sought. (See
447 <a href="#adopt_panel">
447 Section 8, Adoption Panel
447 </a>
447 ).
447 </p>
448 <p>
448 A referral to the Adoption Team should be made as soon as possible within the 'relinquished
process' so that efforts can be made to identify an appropriate placement, including a Foster to
Adopt placement, (see
448 <a href="p_foster_for_adopt.html">
448 Fostering for Adoption, Concurrent Planning and Temporary Approval as a Foster Carer of Approved
Prospective Adopters Procedure
448 </a>
448 ).
448 </p>
449 <p id="accm_ch">
449 <span class="bold">
449 6.1.1 Accommodation of the Child
449 </span>
449 </p>
450 <p>
450 Following Accommodation of the child, the practitioner should progress the matter as with any
other child who becomes looked after:
450 </p>
451 <ul>
452 <li>
452 Ensure a case record for the child is opened and the electronic recording system is provided
with all relevant information, particularly the child's status, (this to be updated throughout);
452 </li>
453 <li>
453 Advise the Independent Reviewing Unit of the child's placement and status and ensure the first
review is completed within 20 working days, completing all necessary documentation;
453 </li>
454 <li>
454 Complete a Care Plan for the child;
454 </li>
455 <li>
455 Commence the child's Permanence Report (for Adoption Panel);
455 </li>
456 <li>
456 Progress a referral to the (Adoption Panel) Medical Advisor for a health assessment including
CoramBAAF medical assessment forms M and B together with CoramBAAF PH form, (completed by
parent(s));
456 </li>
457 <li>
457 Ensure a birth certificate is obtained: this can be undertaken by the parent;
457 </li>
458 <li>
458 Visit the child's placement in accordance with the regulations and other requirements, (see
458 <a href="p_sw_visits.html">
458 Social Work Visits to Looked After Children Procedure
458 </a>
458 );
458 </li>
459 <li>
459 Continue to keep in contact with the parent(s) and continue with counselling about adoption as
wanted/needed by them;
459 </li>
460 <li>
460 Arrange and support contact arrangements with the child as required;
460 </li>
461 <li>
461 Ensure that the child's Life Story Book is commenced and progressed and that the foster carer is
involved in this on as continuous basis;
461 </li>
462 <li>
462 At 6 weeks, obtain parent(s) consent to place the child for adoption and advance placement to
adopt;
462 </li>
463 <li>
463 Discuss with the parent(s) their level of engagement within the process and at what point they
may wish to disengage from the adoption process.
463 </li>
464 </ul>
465 <p>
465 In many instances the parent(s) will be completely disengaged at an early stage and there might
therefore be an issue of continuing engagement to undertake necessary tasks, e.g. obtaining a
birth certificate, completing consent forms, etc.
465 </p>
466 <p>
466 See
466 <a href="files/cafcass_adcs_relinquished_adopt.pdf#page=27" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
466 ADCS, Good Practice Guidance for Adoption Agencies and Cafcass: Children Relinquished for
Adoption - Annex 5 'Statement That I Do Not Wish to be Notified of the Application for an
Adoption Order for my Child - Section 20(4) Adoption and Children Act 2002' Proforma
466 </a>
466 .
466 </p>
467 <p>
467 <span class="bold">
467 6.1.2 Preparing the Child
467 </span>
467 </p>
468 <p>
468 Work with the child, in an age-appropriate way, should be begin to be undertaken to help prepare
them for the planning and changes that will progress them to their permanent placement. The nature
and style of this work will vary greatly on the child and their age, understanding and capacity
and is likely to be a mixture of play, counselling and 'discussion'. This could include a final
'goodbye' contact with their parent(s)/guardian and family.
468 </p>
469 <p id="adopt_case">
469 <span class="bold">
469 6.1.3 Adoption Case Record
469 </span>
469 </p>
470 <p>
470 Once the Local Authority has made a decision that the plan for the child should be one of
adoption, in addition to the Looked After Child record, an Adoption Case Record should be
established.
470 </p>
471 <p>
471 See
471 <a href="p_adop_cas_recs.html#_2contents">
471 Adoption Case Records Procedure, Contents
471 </a>
471 .
471 </p>
472 <h4>
472 6.2 Pre-Birth Child
472 </h4>
473 <p>
473 Many children who are relinquished will come as a pre-birth request from the mother. Counselling
processes / information gathering processes with the mother and, (where appropriate and known),
putative father need to be undertaken and progressed.
473 </p>
474 <p>
474 Additionally, a foster to adopt placement can be sought, (if assessed as appropriate), or initial
request for a placement, together with planning a schedule for Adoption Panel.
474 </p>
475 <p>
475 Note however that formal consent by the mother for an adoption placement and advance consent to
adopt cannot be given until the child is 6 weeks old.
475 </p>
476 <p>
476 <span class="bold">
476 6.2.1 Child's Birth and Discharge from the Maternity Unit
476 </span>
476 </p>
477 <p>
477 At the point of the child's birth, the mother can decide to care for the child or request
separation. However, greater involvement at this stage by the mother is likely to make it more
difficult to separate.
477 </p>
478 <p>
478 The practitioner should seek to meet with the mother as soon as reasonably possible, checking with
maternity staff that this is appropriate. The focus should be on the mother's welfare; reflecting
on the plan for relinquishing the new-born child and exploring how the mother / father (if
appropriate) want to deal with this stage of the process. It should also include advice /
information, perhaps particularly around separation and naming the child.
478 </p>
479 <p>
479 This stage of the process is one of particular sensitivity and should be lead by the mother. The
parent(s) can provide as much or as little for the child as they feel they want to at this very
initial stage and should be encouraged / supported - but not pressured - to have contact with the
child. This contact could be at the foster carer's home - given that, unless there are health
issues for the child requiring the child to remain in the maternity unit, discharge is likely to
be after 24 hours and should be to the identified foster carer.
479 </p>
480 <p>
480 It should also be considered that this is the point at which the child's Life Story Book starts,
and provides an opportunity to collate detail and (with permission) photos for the child's Life
Story Book.
480 </p>
481 <p>
481 At the time of birth, the practitioner should:
481 </p>
482 <ul>
483 <li>
483 Provide the maternity unit with the foster carer's details and the foster carer's GP details;
483 </li>
484 <li>
484 Ensure the CoramBAAF medical Forms M and B for completion by the paediatrician;
484 </li>
485 <li>
485 Mother's Consent Form (CoramBAAF PH) consenting to the completion of the above M and B Forms.
485 </li>
486 </ul>
487 <p>
487 <span class="bold">
487 Note
487 </span>
487 : these forms should be completed before the child's discharge, so as to avoid unnecessary delay
later.
487 </p>
488 <p>
488 <span class="bold">
488 6.2.2 Accommodation of the child
488 </span>
488 </p>
489 <p>
489 Following discharge from hospital, the practitioner should progress the matter as with any other
child who becomes looked after, (see
489 <a href="#accm_ch">
489 Section 6.1.1, Accommodation of the child
489 </a>
489 ).
489 </p>
490 <p>
490 Additional counselling for the parent or guardian should be provided where the local authority is
seeking to obtain their signed agreement to the placement for adoption of the child aged under 6
weeks. The local authority should make it clear orally and in writing:
490 </p>
491 <ul>
492 <li>
492 That the parent or guardian retains full Parental Responsibility until:
493 <ul>
494 <li>
494 They give their consent after the child reaches the age of 6 weeks;
494 </li>
495 <li>
495 A Placement Order is made; or
495 </li>
496 <li>
496 An Adoption Order is made.
496 </li>
497 </ul>
498 </li>
499 <li>
499 The parent or guardian may only have contact with the child by agreement with the agency or by
order of the court;
499 </li>
500 <li>
500 Their rights in the event that the parent or guardian asks for the child to be returned (see
500 <a href="#withdraw">
500 Section 7, Parent(s) Withdraw Their Consent or Change Their Plan for the Child
500 </a>
500 );
500 </li>
501 <li>
501 That after the child is 6 weeks old, the local authority will seek to arrange for them to give
their formal consent to the child being placed for adoption.
501 </li>
502 </ul>
503 <p>
503 Subject to the agreement being signed, the local authority may now place the child. It should seek
to maintain contact for the child with the parents and ascertain when the child reaches the age of
6 weeks, whether they are prepared to consent to:
503 </p>
504 <ul>
505 <li>
505 A placement of the child for adoption under Section 19 (2002 Act) with a prospective adopter
identified in the Consent, or with any prospective adopter who may be chosen by the local
authority; or
505 </li>
506 <li>
506 A placement of the child for an adoption can proceed. If they are not, and they request that the
child be returned to them, the local authority must comply with that request unless there are
grounds for seeking a Placement Order, or instituting other proceedings.
506 </li>
507 </ul>
508 <p>
508 <span class="bold">
508 6.2.3 Adoption Case Record
508 </span>
508 </p>
509 <p>
509 See
509 <a href="#adopt_case">
509 Section 6.1.3, Adoption Case Record
509 </a>
509 .
509 </p>
510 <h3 id="withdraw">
510 7. Parent(s) Withdraw Their Consent or Change Their Plan for the Child
510 </h3>
511 <h4>
511 7.1 Change of Plan
511 </h4>
512 <p>
512 Where the child is Accommodated under Section 20 (Children Act 1989) and is less than 6 weeks old
and the parent changes their mind, a request for the child to be returned to the parent's care
must be responded to.
512 </p>
513 <p>
513 Nevertheless, an evaluation of the circumstances should be undertaken and include any factors that
may require a formal child protection risk assessment. (See
513 <a
href="http://media.inzu.net/2acc977c715cd84d14a75f01032546ad/mysite/downloads/570_606709_Effective
_Support_for_Children.20.6.17_FINAL.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
513 The Bexley Threshold: Bexley Safeguarding Partnership - Effective Support for Children, Young
People and Families in Bexley
513 </a>
513 ).
513 </p>
514 <p>
514 Following such an assessment, and if the Local Authority identify the child's welfare and best
interests would not be met by a return to the parent / guardian's care, the Local Authority may
apply for: an Emergency Protection Order or Care Order; a Placement Order or Adoption Order.
514 </p>
515 <p>
515 If the child has been Accommodated for more than 20 days then the decision should be undertaken by
the Nominated Manager for 'Ceasing Look After a Child'; if the length of time is fewer than 20
days, then this decision can be undertaken by a Team Manager.
515 </p>
516 <p>
516 In all circumstances, any child returning home should be made on the basis that they are
safeguarded and their welfare and best interests will be promoted. This should take into account
the support that can be provided by Children's Services and its partner agencies.
516 </p>
517 <p>
517 See
517 <a href="p_ceasing_to_la_ch.html#ch_acc_under_s20">
517 Children Accommodated under Section 20
517 </a>
517 and
517 <a href="p_ceasing_to_la_ch.html#relinquished">
517 Relinquished Children
517 </a>
517 in the Ceasing to Look After a Child Procedure.
517 </p>
518 <p>
518 <span class="bold">
518 Note
518 </span>
518 : Where the parent / guardian withdraws their consent to adoption it should not be assumed that
the threshold criteria under Section 31(2) will be satisfied and each case needs to be considered
on its own facts. (See
518 <a href="http://www.familylawweek.co.uk/site.aspx?i=ed161764" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
518 Re A O (care proceedings) 2016 EWFC 36
518 </a>
518 ).
518 </p>
519 <h4>
519 7.2 Withdrawal of Consent
519 </h4>
520 <p>
520 The parent(s) can withdraw their consent to the child's placement for adoption at any stage prior
to the prospective adopters issuing an adoption application in relation to the child, either by
using the
520 <a href="https://formfinder.hmctsformfinder.justice.gov.uk/a106-eng.pdf" target="_blank"
rel="noopener">
520 'Withdrawal of Consent Sections 19 and 20 of the Adoption and Children Act 2002' form
520 </a>
520 or by written notice given to the Adoption Agency.
520 </p>
521 <p>
521 On receiving the Notice of Withdrawal, the Local Authority (as the agency) will lose the authority
to place and there should be an immediate review of the child's plan for adoption. Following legal
advice, the Local Authority may decide to apply for a Placement Order.
521 </p>
522 <span class="bold">
522 Where the child is not yet placed with adoptive applicants
522 </span>
522 - and the parent or guardian informs the Local Authority that they wish the child to be returned to
their care, the child should be returned to the parent(s) / guardian within 7 days, unless the Local
Authority has either made an application for a Placement Order or a decision is made to apply for a
Placement Order.
522 <span class="bold">
522 Where the child is placed for adoption
522 </span>
522 - and the parent or guardian requests the return of the child, the child should be returned to the
agency within 14 days, beginning with the day on which the notice was given, unless the Authority
has either made an application for a placement or a decision is made to apply for a Placement Order.
As soon as the child is returned to the Local Authority / Adoption Agency, the child must return to
the parent / guardian.
523 <h3 id="adopt_panel">
523 8. Adoption Panel
523 </h3>
524 <p>
524 Once consent has been signed the practitioner should proceed to the Adoption Panel (see
524 <a href="p_adop_panel.html">
524 Adoption Panel Procedure
524 </a>
524 ) after completing the child's Permanency Report and providing the range of required documents,
notably the child Permanency Report.
524 </p>
525 <h3 id="cafcass">
525 9. CAFCASS - Including Relevant Forms
525 </h3>
526 <p>
526 Once the Adoption Panel and Agency Decision Maker have confirmed the plan for the child to be
adoption, notification must be urgently sent to Cafcass.
526 </p>
527 <p>
527 Note that it is usual practice for the Local Authority to refer to Cafcass after the Panel and
Agency decision to place for adoption. However, the law allows a parent to give consent for
adoption ahead of these processes - although the child must be 6 weeks of age. (This might be the
case if a parent is anxious to give consent at the point of the child being 6 weeks of age, or the
Local Authority are satisfied that every effort has been made with respect to the counselling of
the parent who wishes to give consent, and to delay for an Adoption Panel meeting might then lead
to difficulties and, as a result, undue delay for the child's plan.)
527 </p>
528 <p>
528 The principal role of Cafcass is to ensure that consent to place for adoption (Section 19) and
advance consent for an Adoption Order (Section 20) has been made unconditionally and with a full
understanding of all that this means in terms of those sections, of adoption and all its
implications.
528 </p>
529 <p>
529 In doing so, it is helpful for the Schedule 2 (Adoption Agency Regulations) report to be sent with
the formal request to Cafcass.
529 </p>
530 <p>
530 It is not however, the role of Cafcass to challenge birth parents about their decision to
relinquish the child, (as long as they are competent) or the Local Authority / Adoption Agency
's decisions in respect of birth fathers without Parental Responsibility, involvement of extended
family etc.
530 </p>
531 <h4>
531 9.1 Notification to Cafcass
531 </h4>
532 <p>
532 The following needs to be sent to Cafcass:
532 </p>
533 <ul>
534 <li>
534 <a href="files/cafcass_adcs_relinquished_adopt.pdf#page=12" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
534 Notification of child to be relinquished for adoption
534 </a>
534 ;
534 </li>
535 <li>
535 <a href="files/cafcass_adcs_relinquished_adopt.pdf#page=19" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
535 Schedule 2 Proforma
535 </a>
535 .
535 </li>
536 </ul>
537 <h4>
537 9.2 Consent Forms to be completed and signed by the parent(s)/guardian:
537 </h4>
538 <p>
538 The following consent forms need to be completed by the parent(s) following the counselling and
witnessed by a Cafcass Officer:
538 </p>
539 <p>
539 <a href="http://hmctsformfinder.justice.gov.uk/HMCTS/GetForm.do?court_forms_id=2620"
target="_blank" rel="noopener">
539 A100: Consent form to placement for adoption with any prospective adopters chosen by the
Adoption Agency - under Section 19 (Adoption and Children 2002 Act)
539 </a>
539 </p>
540 <p>
540 <a href="http://hmctsformfinder.justice.gov.uk/HMCTS/GetForm.do?court_forms_id=2621"
target="_blank" rel="noopener">
540 A101: Consent form to the placement of adoption with identified prospective adopter(s) - under
Section 19 (Adoption and Children 2002 Act)
540 </a>
540 </p>
541 <p>
541 <a href="http://hmctsformfinder.justice.gov.uk/HMCTS/GetForm.do?court_forms_id=2622"
target="_blank" rel="noopener">
541 A102: Consent form to the placement of adoption with identified prospective carers and, if the
placement breaks down, with any prospective adopters chosen by the Adoption Agency - under
Section 19 (Adoption and Children 2002 Act)
541 </a>
541 </p>
542 <p>
542 <a href="http://hmctsformfinder.justice.gov.uk/HMCTS/GetForm.do?court_forms_id=2623"
target="_blank" rel="noopener">
542 A103: Advance consent to adoption - Section 20 (Adoption and Children Act 2002)
542 </a>
542 </p>
543 <p>
543 <a href="http://hmctsformfinder.justice.gov.uk/HMCTS/GetForm.do?court_forms_id=2624"
target="_blank" rel="noopener">
543 A104: Consent to Adoption (Adoption and Children Act 2002)
543 </a>
543 </p>
544 <p>
544 <a href="http://hmctsformfinder.justice.gov.uk/HMCTS/GetForm.do?court_forms_id=2626"
target="_blank" rel="noopener">
544 A106: Withdrawal of Consent to Sections 19 and 20 (Adoption and Children Act 2002)
544 </a>
544 </p>
545 <h4>
545 9.3 Cafcass Outcome/Response
545 </h4>
546 <ul>
547 <li>
547 <span class="bold">
547 Consent to place for adoption (Section 19)
547 </span>
547 : consent has been unconditionally and properly given with full knowledge and comprehension of
adoption and the process;
547 </li>
548 <li>
548 <span class="bold">
548 Consent to place for adoption (Section 19) and Advance consent to the making of an adoption
order (Section 20)
548 </span>
548 : consent has been unconditionally and properly given to both Placement and Adoption Order with
full knowledge and comprehension of adoption and the process.
548 <br />
549 <br />
550 The Local Authority should receive the following letter from the Cafcass Officer:
550 <a href="files/cafcass_adcs_relinquished_adopt.pdf#page=16" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
550 Relinquished child: Countersigning Consent Forms (Letter 3)
550 </a>
550 .
550 <br>
551 <br>
552 <span class="bold">
552 Note
552 </span>
552 :
552 </li>
553 </ul>
554 <blockquote>
555 <ul>
556 <li>
556 Where advance consent to the making of an Adoption Order (Section 20) this letter is amended
to reflect this);
556 </li>
557 <li>
557 Where the parent(s) / guardian has identified and given notice that they do not wish to be
notified when an application for an Adoption Order is made, Section 20(4) Adoption and
Children Act) the letter should also acknowledge this and attach a 'Statement' to this effect.
557 </li>
558 </ul>
559 </blockquote>
560 <p>
560 (See
560 <a href="files/cafcass_adcs_relinquished_adopt.pdf#page=27" target="_blank" rel="noopener">
560 Annex 5: Statement That I Do Not Wish to be Notified of the Application for an Adoption Order
for my child
560 </a>
560 ).
560 </p>
561 </div>
562 </main>
563 </div>
566 <footer>
567 <div class="footer">
568 <div>
569 <p>
569 <a href="privacypolicy.html">
569 Privacy Policy
569 </a>
569 <br>
570 <span style="font-size:small;">
571 <span id='desktop_button' tabindex='0'>
571 Desktop
571 </span>
571 |
571 <span id='mobile_button' tabindex='0'>
571 Mobile
571 </span>
571 |
571 <span id='responsive_button' tabindex='0' style='text-decoration:underline'>
571 Responsive
571 </span>
571 </span>
571 </p>
573 <div id="trix_logo">
574 <a href="https://www.trixonline.co.uk/" target="_blank" class="imagelink">
574 <img src="images/trixlogo.png" height="40" alt="Tri.x Logo links to Tri.x homepage"/>
574 </a>
575 </div>
576 </div>
577 </div>
579 </footer>
580 <div id="desktoptest">
580 </div>
581 <script>
708 </script>
710 <script>
719 </script>
721 <script>
768 </script>
771 <script>
773 </script>
781 <script>
820 </script>
821 <script type="text/javascript">
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823 <script>
862 </script>
866 <script type="text/javascript">
878 </script>
879 </body>
880 </html>