Scottish Government publishes vision for adoption in Scotland
The Scottish Government has published (26 November) a statement setting out its vision and priorities for supporting adoption in Scotland.
The statement gives information on the evolving nature of adoption in Scotland, and the strategic priorities to deliver support, including:
- Recognising adoption as the best permanence option for meeting the needs of some children
- Supporting timely adoption and good transitions
- Best practice to support family time and life journey work
- Providing consistent and comprehensive post-adoption support
- Prioritising work to provide lifelong support
In the statement, the government outlines what it aims to do to realise its vision, including ensuring that the right strategic connections and collaborations are developed across the sector, building upon good practice already happening in Scotland, and considering research including that published by CELCIS earlier this month, Towards modernising adoption in Scotland: A focused mapping review.
The Minister for Children, Young People and The Promise, Natalie Don-Innes, said:
“Our vision is that adoption in Scotland is open and responsive, with the wellbeing and interests of our children and young people at its heart. Whilst adoption numbers have decreased in Scotland in recent years, it continues to have a place in our society as the right and best form of permanent care for some of our children.
“Adoption supports children to grow up loved, safe, and respected – all of which goes to the heart of our collective delivery of The Promise.”