Aims of The Scottish Adoption Crisis Group
1. Influence Government Policy:
Advocate for the establishment of a National Adoption Practice Model in Scotland, focusing on comprehensive post-adoption support.
2. Improve Local Practice:
Encourage positive changes in local-level social work practices, attitudes, and actions to better support adoptive families.
3. Build a Supportive Community:
Create a strong, interconnected support network for adoptive families in Scotland, facilitating access to resources, guidance, and peer support.
4. Increase Awareness and Advocacy:
Raise public awareness about the challenges faced by adoptive families and advocate for their rights at both national and local levels.
5. Enhance Data Transparency:
Ensure the collection, analysis, and publication of accurate data on adoption breakdowns and outcomes in Scotland.
Objectives of The Scottish Adoption Crisis Group
1. Lobby for Legislative Changes:
– Engage with the Scottish Government, MSPs, and other stakeholders to secure a commitment to a National Adoption Practice Model by the end of the year.
– Advocate for changes in legislation to extend post-adoption support and introduce an Adoption Support Fund in Scotland.
2. Develop and Launch an Informative Website:
– Create a website that ranks well on search engines and provides clear information on adoption procedures, rights, and support resources by Q1 of next year.
– Include sections on legal wayfinding, complaints procedures, and crisis management for adopters.
3. Foster Collaboration Among Stakeholders:
– Establish a platform for discussion and collaboration among key agencies, charities, and professionals (e.g., Adoption and Fostering Scotland, AdoptionUK, BASW) within the next six months.
4. Collect and Disseminate Data:
– Work with relevant bodies to gather comprehensive data on adoption breakdowns and support outcomes, aiming to publish a report within the next 12 months.
5. Promote Best Practices in Social Work:
– Develop and distribute guidance and training resources for social workers on adoption breakdown and crisis management, targeting a reach of all local authorities in Scotland by the end of next year.
6. Expand Support Services:
– Create an online support community for adopters, including peer-to-peer networks and access to resources, aiming to have at least 500 registered members within the first year.
7. Raise Awareness Through Media and Advocacy:
– Conduct a media campaign to highlight the issues surrounding adoption support and breakdowns, aiming for coverage in at least three major Scottish news outlets by mid-next year.
8. Ensure Continuous Monitoring and Improvement:
– Establish a regular review and feedback process to assess progress on objectives and adapt strategies as needed, with quarterly updates provided to stakeholders.
