PART IIARRANGEMENTS FOR ADOPTION

Welfare of children

Duty to promote welfare of childC19

In deciding on any course of action in relation to the adoption of a child, a court or adoption agency shall regard the welfare of the child as the most important consideration and shall—

a

have regard to all the circumstances, full consideration being given to—

i

the need to be satisfied that adoption, or adoption by a particular person or persons, will be in the best interests of the child; and

ii

the need to safeguard and promote the welfare of the child th roughout his childhood; and

iii

the importance of providing the child with a stable and harmonious home; and

b

so far as practicable, first ascertain the wishes and feelings of the child regarding the decision and give due consideration to them, having regard to his age and understanding.