Adoption and fostering

This article contains information about how to adopt a child in South Gloucestershire, and support for people involved in adoption.  It also includes information on private fostering and the related responsibilities.

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Adoption services in South Gloucestershire

Adoption West is the adoption agency of these councils: 

  • Bath and North East Somerset
  • Bristol
  • Gloucestershire
  • North Somerset
  • South Gloucestershire
  • Wiltshire

Adoption West can offer advice and support if you are considering adopting a child/ren, or if you live in one of the areas listed and have already adopted.

Adoption West’s team are available to advise on the following areas:

  • Adopting a child or children
  • Non-Agency Partner Adoption (NAPA), formerly known as step-parent Adoption.
  • Adoption Support, including information on The Adoption Support Fund
  • Birth Links - Birth Links is a support service for adopted adults and for birth relatives affected by adoption. It aims to provide advice, support, information, and guidance.

If you would prefer to speak to someone, you can reach a member of the friendly approachable team on 03303 550333 or email info@adoptionwest.co.uk

Thinking about adoption for your child

If you are considering placing your own child for adoption, you can contact us on 01454 866088 to speak to a social worker.  You can read information on what will happen and where to get more advice on the CoramBAAF website.

Private Fostering: looking after someone else’s child

Private fostering is when a child under 16, or under 18 if they’re disabled, lives for more than 28 days with someone who is not a close relative. Close relatives include:

  • Grandparents
  • Brothers
  • Sisters
  • Uncles
  • Aunts
  • step-parents
  • people with parental responsibility for the child

Children are not in private foster care if:

  • they are only cared for during the day
  • they are in the care of a local council

You can find out more about private fostering in this leaflet and on our fostering page.

You must tell us about private fostering arrangements by phoning 01454 866000 or emailing accessandresponse@southglos.gov.uk

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