Paragraph 3

The adoption agency needs to know whether each of the child’s parents or guardian agrees with its decision that an application for a permanence order with authority for the child to be adopted should be made. You are asked to complete a certificate (enclosed) indicating whether you agree or disagree with the application being made. Agreement is sought solely in relation to the adoption agency’s decision and is quite separate from the agreement required by the court (see paragraphs 4 and 5) in the subsequent application. You should read the certificate carefully, complete Part A or Part B and return it to the adoption agency within 28 days of receipt. If you do not indicate your agreement within 28 days, the adoption agency will be obliged to make the application for the permanence order seeking authority for the child to be adopted to the court within a set timescale determined by the circumstances of your child – the adoption agency or your solicitor will be able to advise you on how long this will take. If you do agree, and the adoption agency places your child with a person wishing to adopt them, then you will not be entitled to have your child returned to you without permission of the court or the adoption agency if you change your mind. If you change your mind, you should inform the agency at once.