This 'step-by-step' guide outlines the basic procedure for adopting in Caerphilly county borough. If you have any further questions please contact us and we will be happy to help.
Step 1
If you have decided that adoption is for you and your family, please contact us on 01443 864527. An adoption social worker will discuss your interest with you over the telephone. They will also then advise you if we are currently recruiting new adoptive parents for the age of child you are considering. If we are able to take your enquiry further at this stage we will then send you our information pack.
Step 2
We will invite you to our next Adoption Information Evening where we will provide you with more in depth information regarding adoption in Caerphilly and you will have the opportunity to ask questions.
Step 3
A home visit by a social worker will be arranged. This is called 'initial counselling' and it is here that you will be able to talk through your individual circumstances with a social worker.
Step 4
Following 'initial counselling' you will be expected to attend a compulsory three day 'adoption preparation' training course which will cover areas such as the impact of abuse, separation and loss, and contact.
Step 5
Once you have completed the training course, you will be allocated a social worker who will undertake an in-depth assessment with you that looks at every aspect of your life. It is very important that you are open and honest throughout this assessment with your social worker. The children who need 'forever families' in Caerphilly often come from difficult backgrounds and it is imperative that these children get the best family for them, forever. This process takes around 6 months.
Step 6
Once the assessment is completed, your social worker will take it to adoption panel. The panel is made up of social services employees, independent members and legal and medical advisors. The Panel will decide whether or not to recommend your approval as an adopter(s) but the Agency Decision Maker, usually the Head of Children's Services, makes the final decision. You will be invited to attend Panel for part of the meeting if you so wish
Further information
If you are considering adopting a child and would like any further information and advice, please contact us on 01443 864527 or email adoption@caerphilly.gov.uk.