As adoptions rise, there’s a growing concern that many families in England could end up returning their children to the care system due to funding cuts and insufficient support, according to a charity’s warning.
Adoption UK highlighted that these funding reductions are already having a “devastating” impact on adopted children, describing the situation as both “morally and economically meaningless.”
One representative noted that in nearly a decade of experience in adoption, they’ve never encountered anything like the current crisis. Families are reaching out in distress, expressing fears that their children might harm themselves. Many feel they’re at their breaking point, worrying that without adequate help, they won’t be able to care for their kids.
This past April, the government announced a 40% cut in the funding available from the £50 million annual adoption and special guardianship fund intended for local authorities and adoption agencies supporting these children.
Woodhead mentioned that this funding, crucial for transforming lives, will significantly affect many children. If those needing help don’t receive it, the costs could escalate in the long run. There’s already a notable overrepresentation of adopted children in the criminal justice system compared to their peers, which is pretty concerning. It almost feels like a setup for further failure.
Woodhead suggested that this funding cut could lead to a drop in adoptions overall. Between 2013 and 2023, the number of families approved for adoption in England has declined by nearly 60%.
While the government is investing in recruitment campaigns to attract prospective adopters, the grim reality is that without support, families may have to return their children to care—hardly an encouraging prospect.
According to the charity’s annual adoption barometer, 38% of adoptive families reported facing serious challenges this year, a significant jump from 22% last year. The rate of children leaving their families prematurely—whether returning to care or moving to support facilities—rose from 3% in 2021 to 7% in 2023, with expectations that numbers could continue to grow.
Tracy Beaumont, from the adoption law center at Ridley & Hall Solicitors, remarked that she’s been inundated with calls from families seeking legal advice during this “absolute crisis,” as they strive to re-engage with local government care for their children.
Sadly, many parents feel they’ve exhausted all options. They’ve sought help, but the system often fails them.
Beaumont advises on how local authorities handle children’s needs under section 20 of the Children’s Act from 1989, which might lead to court proceedings for care orders. Many clients mistakenly believe that with support, such drastic measures could be avoided. However, local governments already deal with resource constraints, made worse by these funding cuts. Parents are genuinely traumatized by their experiences, and tragically, many children may have to return to care.
A spokesperson from the Ministry of Education responded, stating that they recognize how critical this support is for families and are committed to ensuring that adopted families continue receiving needed help through planned changes.
They confirmed the £50 million allocated for adoption and special guardianship support funds, which allows children to access up to £3,000 annually for therapeutic support. The spokesperson further emphasized that decisions are being made to ensure the fund remains financially sustainable, allowing more vulnerable children to access targeted assistance.
