Exploring outcomes relating to adoption
‘Permanence’ for children is much more than just legal and physical permanence, but also a range of other factors that are core to a child’s development: health care, education, and the emotional dimensions of stability, such as continuity of relationships, community and personal identity. It is about having a family for life and a sense of belonging and connectedness.
Adoption is an important permanence option for children who are unable to remain in the care of their family. Whilst research shows children in adoptive families often experience better outcomes (health, education, well-being) than those in alternative placements the number of adoption orders made has steadily declined over the past few years.
This literature review was commissioned by Adoption England to support practitioners in care planning for children, looking at the outcomes for different types of permanency.
The summary document is for use by those directly involved in care planning. It also aims to provide some support for those writing care plans and court reports for children needing permanency away from their family.