There is a lack of clarity on the amount of adoption breakdowns / disruptions in Scotland.
There are recorded disruptions and breakdowns reported in the Care Inspectorate’s Report in Scotland.
However, the numbers changed, but there is no explanation as to why there was a change in the way this was recorded.
It is challenging to identify the number of breakdowns/disruptions because the numbers are not recorded uniformly across Scotland.
Dr Polly Cowan explains in here research (Forever Home? The Complexity of Adoption Breakdown in
Scotland) the reasons for the lack of clarity on adoption breakdown rates in Scotland:
1. Inadequate Data Collection: There is very little data relating to adoption outcomes that are collected or recorded systematically across Scotland. This lack of comprehensive data collection hinders the ability to track and analyse the rates of adoption breakdown accurately.
2. Variability in Practices: Social work practices vary widely and are often unpredictable, which affects the consistency of data collection and reporting on adoption outcomes.
3. Lack of National Estimates: There have been no national estimates of adoptive family breakdown in Scotland, and the country has been missing from international studies on this topic. This absence of data at the national level makes it difficult to estimate the prevalence or patterns of adoption breakdowns.
4. Complex Definitions: The complexity in defining what constitutes an adoption breakdown or disruption adds to the challenges in gathering clear data. Different studies and agencies may use varying definitions, which can lead to inconsistent reporting and understanding.
These factors contribute to the difficulty in obtaining a clear and comprehensive understanding of adoption breakdown rates in Scotland, emphasising the need for improved data strategies and standardised practices in monitoring adoption outcomes.
Extracts From the Care Inspectorate Annual Reports on Fostering and Adoption
