William Eichler 07 November 2024

Councils urged to improve adoption processes

Councils urged to improve adoption processes  image
Image: PeopleImages.com - Yuri A / Shutterstock.com.

Local authorities in England need to learn from past failures to get support for adoptive families right, the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman says.

The Ombudsman has published a new report aimed at improving the support councils provide to people throughout the adoption process.

It comes amid calls for the wholesale reform of the adoption process.

The complaints upheld by the watchdog reveal how an adopted child’s life can be ‘affected by poor service from their council’ during and after the adoption process, according to the report.

In one case, a family was not told about their child’s health condition prior to adoption which had long-term consequences for them as a family unit.

In other cases, poor information at the start of the adoption process has discouraged potential adoptive parents coming forward.

Ms Amerdeep Somal, Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman, said: ‘Councils need to get their processes, and the support they offer to these families, right or they risk family units breaking down.

‘I urge councils to read my report and take stock of the good practice advice it offers to ensure they are giving the best possible chances to children, young people and their families in their area.’

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Head of Democratic Services, Elections & Monitoring Officer

Harborough District Council
Grade 12 £67,236 – £71,223 plus £3000pa Statutory Officer Allowance
We are looking for an accomplished and proactive leader for our vacant post of Head of Democratic Services & Elections Market Harborough, Leicestershire
Recuriter: Harborough District Council

Social Worker

Durham County Council
£35,412 - £39,152 (pre-progression) / £40,777 - £45,091 (post-progression)
We are looking for social workers who have completed the assessed and supported year in employment to join our Families First teams, working with our Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Social Worker

Durham County Council
Grade 9 £35,412 - £39,152 (Pre-Progression) / Grade 11 £40,777 - £45,091 (Post-Progression)
Are you a nurturing social worker passionate about supporting parents so that children can remain with their birth family?     This could be the right Durham
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Administrative Officer

Durham County Council
Grade 4 £25,583 - £26,824
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Administrative Officer to join our busy, friendly team, supporting Children and Young People’s Services. 1 x Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council

Lunchtime Play Worker

Durham County Council
£24,796 pro rata
Lunchtime Play Worker Grade 1 £24,796 pro rata Part Time - 6.25 hour per week, Monday – Friday
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner