READING adoption charity Parents And Children Together (PACT) has joined forces with voluntary adoption agencies across the UK to launch an advice guide exploring early permanence as a route to parenthood.
Early permanence, sometimes referred to as fostering for adoption, allows prospective adopters to care for a child from the earliest stages of their time in care, offering them stability and continuity, while decisions are made about the child’s future within the family court process.
Voluntary adoption agencies across the UK are encouraging people to consider this pathway, which can help provide children with a secure start in life, avoiding unnecessary moves and disruption.
They have created the guide, drawing on the lived experience of adoptive parents who have provided early permanence care.
The advice shared comes directly from people who have been early permanence carers themselves, offering honest, first-hand insight into the realities of the journey. These families reflect openly on the challenges, emotions and rewards of welcoming a child into their homes at such a crucial stage.
Voluntary adoption agencies are specialists in finding families for children who need them most and are particularly experienced in supporting early permanence arrangements.
They work closely with local authorities and regional adoption agencies to ensure that both children and adopters receive the guidance and support they need throughout the process.
Voluntary adoption agencies are independent, not-for-profit organisations dedicated to providing comprehensive, lifelong support to adoptive families.
This includes preparation, training and ongoing support, both during the early permanence stage and beyond.
Last year, PACT placed 14 children through early permanence which is 17% of the 81 children placed with PACT families.
PACT’s Adoption Service Director Lorna Hunt said: “Early permanence offers children the chance to experience stability and security at the earliest possible point in their lives.
“For adopters, it is a unique opportunity to build a bond from the very beginning, but it can also feel daunting without the right support and information.
“This guide has been created to give prospective adopters confidence and clarity.
“It highlights that what matters most is the ability to provide a loving, safe and nurturing home, alongside a willingness to embrace uncertainty in those early stages.
“We are proud that the guide centres the voices of people who have already been early permanence carers, sharing their lived experience to support and encourage others considering this path.
“We hope it reassures and inspires more people to take that first step.”
For information, and a downloadable copy of the advice guide, visit: pactcharity.org
