Formalising your relationship
Adoption is not the only way to formalise your relationship with the child you are caring for. You will need to think carefully about what might be best for the child.
If you are a step-parent, for example, you could:
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Apply for a residence order
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Change the child’s name legally
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Apply to the court for parental responsibility
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Become a legal guardian to the child.
If you are relative of the child or caring for a child who is not related to you, you could:
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Apply for a residence order
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Apply to become a special guardian
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Become a legal guardian to the child.
Fostering
Further information about these alternatives to adoption is available in the leaflets 'You and Your Step-Family' and 'Part of the Family' which you can get from the fostering team that covers the area you live in. You can also discuss your options more fully with a social worker from fostering.
Keeping the birth parents informed
Whichever option you decide upon, you will need to let the child’s birth parent/s know of your plans. They have a basic right to be consulted and have their views considered.
Above all you need to talk to the child and explain what you want to do and why. Simple explanations and an open approach to the subject will benefit everyone.
