Last updated on August 18th, 2015 at 03:08 pm

Recent stories in the media and sweeping changes in the law have led to the misconception that children are whisked away for adoption from parents and extended family at an alarming rate. A recent decision in the Court of Appeal has strengthened the fact that adoption is a last resort and that the court must always look at all other options for children, including them living with extended family members such as grandparents, aunts and uncles if parents really can’t care safely. Whilst this does not prevent children from being adopted, it certainly means that uncles, aunts and grandparents (along with other family members) play a more important role than ever before.

The court has to look at each case individually.  Family placements are not always possible, but there is an increase in children either being placed with their extended family whilst assessments are ongoing or when final orders are made.  It is very important for assessments of family members to take place as early as possible, so, if social services are involved with children in your family, one of the best things to do is to come forward for assessment as an alternate carer sooner rather than later.