What is adoption?

Adoption is a way of providing the security, permanency and the love of a new family when it is not possible for a child to be raised by his/her birth parents or within the birth family.

When you adopt you legally acquire full parental responsibility for the child, just like any other parent. It’s a lifelong commitment which means sticking with it through the difficult times, as well as the good.

Adoption is a way of making a real difference to a child, by giving them the love, stability and safe nurturing environment every child deserves.

After adoption, all rights and responsibilities are transferred from the original parents to the adoptive parents.

The child assumes the surname of the new parents, receives an adoption certificate to replace their birth certificate and becomes a permanent and full member of the new family.

We believe that the stability of a forever family gives children the best possible chance of realising their full potential.

Training and support will be provided to help you prepare for adoption and this support is continued for as long as you feel it is needed.

Adopt South West aims to find safe, secure, permanent homes for children who are unable to live with their birth families. We work in partnership with Cornwall Council and the Isles of Scilly Council, Devon County Council, Plymouth City Council, Somerset County Council and Torbay Council.