Adoption in Scotland to be radically overhauled

A new bill in Scotland published today will radically overhaul adoption north of the border.
 
Charity Baaf Adoption and Fostering welcomed the shake-up, saying it could “transform the lives of hundreds of vulnerable children”.
 
The bill introduces new permanence orders, increases support for adopted children and their families and allows unmarried couples, including gay people, to jointly adopt.
 
Permanence orders allow long-term plans to be made for children if adoption is not a suitable option and will give foster carers more responsibilities.
 
“At a time when the number of adoptions in Scotland is falling and the number of children living in seriously chaotic households is rising, we have to secure more opportunities for youngsters to enjoy the family stability which can make all the difference to their potential,” said education minister Peter Peacock.
 
Adoption and children (Scotland) bill
http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/business/bills/61-adoptChild/index.htm