My child is being adopted

Like other local authorities, Plymouth City Council sometimes remove children from their birth families. This can happen if it is believed that they have suffered or are in danger of suffering significant harm at home. If the court agrees with this, they may grant a Care Order allowing Plymouth City Council to share parental responsibility for the child. Plymouth City Council will then work with you to consider what is best for their long-term welfare.

If you are unable to look after your child temporarily then they may be placed with foster carers and returned to you when you are ready. They may live with foster carers until they are grown up, with you remaining their official parent. However, it is sometimes in the child's best interests to be permanently separated from their parents and become a full member of a new family.

Every child has the right to grow up in a secure and loving family where they can develop their full potential. There are many reasons why a child's birth family cannot provide such an upbringing. Whether you have voluntarily asked to have your child adopted or whether we have decided that your child should be adopted, these pages will help you understand the process and the support available to you.

Frequently asked questions