Members of the public and organisations with an interest in adoption are invited to help shape a landmark reform of the Island’s adoption laws.
A public consultation on proposals for a new Adoption Bill is now live, paving the way for modern legislation designed to ensure that the welfare of the child is at the centre of every decision made by an agency or a court.
Each year children are adopted by loving families on and off the Island who make a life-changing decision for them. Adoption is currently governed by a 1984 Act, and it is now time to consider the scope and provisions of new legislation to reflect changes in society in the intervening years, and that most adoptions today are for older children and those who are already in care.
The proposals aim to bring Manx legislation in line with current best practice, highlighting what must be considered when a decision is made in relation to the adoption of a child. It is anticipated that the new legal framework will reduce delays in the adoption process so that children can live with their adoptive family at the earliest opportunity.
Also included are measures which would make it easier for people who have been adopted and their birth relatives to make contact with each other, should they wish to do so. Feedback on all the proposals will help shape the final content of the Bill before it is considered in parliament.
Minister for Health and Social Care, David Ashford MHK said:
‘The draft Adoption Bill is an important piece of legislation for the Island as it affects the youngest and most vulnerable members of our society. Adoption is intended to bring permanence and stability to the lives of children who may have experienced some degree of trauma and instability. It is vital therefore that the Island has up-to-date adoption legislation to ensure that children being placed for adoption have the best chance of finding a new family and a permanent home.’
A link to the consultation can be found here or copies can be requested by email: dhscconsultaition@gov.im or by phoning Georgina Jones on +44 1624 642608. The Consultation will run until Friday 23 October 2020.
