Feb 11, 2012
This mock Adoption and Permanence Panel considers the case of nine month old Douglas who is being considered for adoption. All characters are fictional although the facts of the case are drawn from real cases. The recording provides insight into the process and deliberations through which the panel reaches a decision. In this, the first of a two part episode, we learn about the background to the case: the mother's lifestyle and family background, her attachment to Douglas and her current relationship with her parents. The episode concludes with an assessment of the mother's future ability to meet the needs of her child. The members of the the panel are: Panel Chair, Member of the local authority childcare team (Dave), Legal adviser to the panel (Margaret), Deputy Chair (Anne), Social worker to Douglas (Jean), Medical advisor (Helen), Foster carer (Yvonne)
The main functions of an Adoption and Permanence Panel are to consider whether:
Adoption is in the best interests of a particular child and if so, whether an application for a 'Permanence Order with Authority to Adopt' should be made A prospective adopter is suitable to be an adoptive parent Prospective adopters would be suitable adoptive parents for a particular child or whether a permanent carer would be a suitable permanent carer for a particular child or sibling groupThe supplementary functions of the panel include to:
Consider permanence plans for children other than adoption Monitor and review the implementation of permanence plans for children Review, after a specified time, approved adoptive parents who have not been linked with a child Consider applications for adoption and residence allowances and to review the payment of these allowances Advise on any other matter relating to permanency.
Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free