Adoption

You can download our information pack and registration of interest form from this page.

Adoption is all about giving a loving home to a child who otherwise cannot have such a home for various reasons.

The adoptive parent(s) take on the rights and responsibilities which would usually be held by the birth parents. The adopted child takes the name of the adoptive family.

Applications

All enquirers must be aged over 21 and possess a level of maturity and life experience. There is no fixed upper age limit but, as a general guide, there should be no more than a 45-year age difference between the youngest adoptive parent and the child unless there is an existing relationship.

Single people, married couples or couples living together may apply. In the case of a single person, they must be able to demonstrate that they have a support network of relatives and / or friends living close by who are supportive of their application and who will offer assistance if a child is placed.

For people recently moved to the area the commitment to make supportive links will be evidenced. Married and cohabiting couples must have lived together in a stable relationship for a minimum of 3 years. Enquiries from gay and lesbian individuals or couples will be treated in a non-discriminatory way.

There are very few young babies awaiting adoption, but there are older children and groups of brothers and sisters who need adoptive families.

Very few of the children placed for adoption today are 'straight forward', and adopters must be willing to accept a number of complicated background factors which will contain elements of risk in terms of the child's future development.

Advice and Guidance

Child Care Services of Clackmannanshire Council can give advice and guidance to you if you wish further information on the adoption processes. You can also view or download our information pack on Adoption.

A specialist team is located at Lime Tree House (see contact address below) and will be happy to advise. You should also be aware that this specialist team can advise on Foster Care.