Government to provide more support to adopting parents

The plan includes giving adopters support in terms of education and adoption pay and leave among others.

00:00 27 December 2012

In an effort to speed up the adoption process that will benefit both adopters and children who are waiting to be adopted, the government plans

to provide support to adopting parents. 

 

According to statistics, the number of children approved for adoption has increased from 3,000 in 2010 to 4,000 in 2012. However, there are still about 4,000 children who are waiting to be matched with prospective adopters. 

 

According to Edward Timpson, the Children’s minister, although there are about 25,000 people who show interest in adopting every year, most of them are deterred by the complicated process and long delays. 

 

Ministers are now encouraging more people to come forward and consider adopting children. Although the assessment process will stay the same, would-be adopters can expect great changes and much-needed support. This includes having access to the adoption register to get information on children waiting for adoption. The plan also includes providing support budget and assistance like parenting classes. 

David Holmes of BAAF welcomed the support. He said: "Now, more than ever, we need more people to consider if adoption could be right for them. We must find families for the thousands of children who are waiting, whilst ensuring that adoption support is available to meet the needs of all."