Adoption and fostering

Sometimes, children can't live with their biological family and won't be able to go back to them in the future. In these cases, adoption can be the best solution.

Adoption is a legal process where a court transfers the responsibility of a child from their birth parents to adoptive parents. This responsibility includes:

1. legal rights and duties,
2. the power to make decisions for the child and their belongings.

Find out more about adoption in Buckinghamshire.

Fostering involves providing care to a child as a member of your household. This could range from a one-night stay to many years, even until the child becomes an adult.

The duration of the child's stay depends on:

1. the child's requirements
2. the kind of fostering that you choose to take part in.

You can be a short-term or long-term foster carer, or offer emergency and respite care.

Find out more about fostering in Buckinghamshire.

A special guardian is usually a family member, friend, or another trusted adult who looks after a child when they cannot live with their parents. A Special Guardianship Order (SGO) gives the guardian responsibility for making important decisions about the child's:

• care
• education
• wellbeing

The child keeps their legal link with their birth family, but the special guardian provides a safe and stable home.

The Guardians' Guide from Buckinghamshire Council provides clear information and practical support for special guardians. You can find advice on:

• caring for children
• understanding behaviour
• keeping in touch with family members
• getting help with school and money
• understanding your rights
• accessing support services
• workshops
• support groups

We have a number of organisations on our directory available to support you if you are considering adoption or fostering.