Introducing you to the child

After the match has been recommended by the Adoption and Permanence Panel and approved by the decision-maker, there will be an introduction planning meeting to work out a programme of gradually introducing you to the child. You will start to get to know each other in a series of meetings. We will help make the transition as smooth as possible and the child will only move in with you once they are clearly comfortable in your presence and all parties are ready.

After the child has moved in with you, both of your social workers will continue to visit you regularly to provide all the advice and support you need as you adjust to the new situation. Until the Adoption Order has been made, Plymouth City Council will remain the legal parent and will therefore need to review the placement after one month, three months later, and six monthly thereafter.

We will endeavour to provide children with an independent advocate at these reviews, to ensure that the child's best interests are being considered at all times.

"When he arrived it was a happy and exciting time. At the same time you are naturally concerned that the child will settle and be happy."

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