Adoption and fostering information

Adoption

Adopted children are unable to live with their birth families for many reasons and move to live permanently with a new family, taking their surname, assuming the same rights and privileges as if they had been born to them.

Fostering

Right now there are children and young people in the Isle of Man, who have experienced trauma and loss, and are unable to live with their birth parents and families. They need the support of foster carers who can support them and their families to achieve stability and security in their lives. You can make a difference by becoming a foster carer with the Department and, if you've got the passion and commitment needed to make a really positive difference to a child's life we'd love to hear from you.

As either an adoptive or foster parent you could:

• Help a child or young person with their emotions during a traumatic and difficult time.
• Offer understanding to a child or young person who may show their distress through their behaviour.
• Give time and commitment to helping a child or young person and their family re-unite or live apart in the future.
• Help a child or young person adjust to being part of your family, and your family adjust to having a new young person joining them.
• Work as part of a professional team to achieve the best outcomes for children in care.
• Learn more and develop your skills and confidence in the roles with support and training we can offer.

Where to go from here:

If you want to know more you can either:

• Attend one of our recruitment and information events, held throughout the year in communities around the Island. Dates and venues will be publicised in the local media.
• Please contact us now by telephoning 01624 610000 or completing details below or email us at: FamilyPlacementService@gov.im to find out more.