A change in law could give adopted children closer contact with their birth families

Face to face contact

Adoption is a permanent break between a child and their birth family, and alters the child’s identity forever. In the eyes of the law they are no longer the child of their birth parents, and most adopted children grow up without seeing or knowing any of their birth family.

But this could change, thanks to the publication of the 170-page report, to access a copy click here, which comes up with four recommendations, one of which is that there needs to be a change in face-to-face contact between adopted children and birth families, with training and greater support and counselling for birth parents.

Seismic shift

Around 3000 children are adopted every year in England. The process is authorised by judges in family courts who decide the level of contact that every child will have with their birth parents. Currently this is often limited to just letters and pictures, which are sent twice a year, via an intermediary, usually social services.

Known as ‘Letterbox,’ supporters of the proposed change say that the letterbox system is simply not effective. Whilst others against radical changes think that the introduction of face-to-face contact may deter people from adopting.

This could be particularly worrying as according to Adoption UK, (the leading charity for adopted and care experienced people, adoptive families, and others parenting children who can’t live with their birth parents), the number of people coming forward to adopt is in decline.

However it initially looks like research backs the changes, with Adoption UK’s recent findings showing that 93% of prospective adopters said they believed direct contact can be beneficial.

Adoption advice essential

Lisa Blizzard, Head of Children & Families Public Law at Alsters Kelley said. “There are lots of implications and complications surrounding this proposed change. If you are worried, or would like some advice, we would suggest that in the first instance you get in touch with us. We are fully versed in all areas of adoption and post adoption contact and can help you to resolve any issues quickly, effectively and with the minimum of tension, so you and your family can move on happily with your life.”

Support and advice

If you are concerned or would just like to talk to a professional family lawyer, please get in touch. Our network of offices cover Coventry, Leamington, Nuneaton, Stratford-upon-Avon and Southam so we are very accessible, if you want to call in and see a member of our team. Contact Lisa Blizzard, Head of Children & Families Public Law in the first instance by phoning 01926 356000 or emailing lisa.blizzard@alsterskelley.com