Ofsted Report on Child Adoption Delays
Family and Children
Ofsted have released a report exploring the efficiency of the child adoption process.
The Right on Time report found that delays were caused by a number of factors and that the average time to complete care proceedings was 14 months. The report found that a high number of cases had repeated or delayed assessments. This was in part due to the sometimes delicate nature of the relationship between courts and social workers. There is a perceived lack of trust of local authority social worker assessments by the courts and equally social workers had a lack of confidence and experience in court work.
Ofsted recommends that the government takes “swift and full action to support the implementation of relevant recommendations of the Family Justice Review, particularly those actions relating to the timely implementation and conclusion of care proceedings, so that delay at all stages of the child’s journey is addressed.”
To read the full report click here.
Family Law Solicitors, Eastbourne, Hailsham, Polegate, East Sussex
If you would like advice on family or children matters please contact our Family Law Department for a free initial appointment on Eastbourne 01323 727321 or Hailsham 01323 841481.
