The Adoption Agencies (Wales) Regulations 2005

Adoption agency’s decision in relation to the proposed placement

34.—(1) The adoption agency must —

(a) take into account the recommendation of the adoption panel;

(b) take into account any advice given by the adoption panel in accordance with regulation 33(3); and

(c) have regard to the consideration set out in section 1(2) of the Act,

in coming to a decision about whether the child should be placed for adoption with the particular prospective adopter.

(2) No member of the adoption panel is to take part in any decision made by the adoption agency under paragraph (1).

(3) As soon as possible after making its decision the adoption agency must notify the prospective adopter in writing of its decision about the proposed placement, contact arrangements and the restriction of any person’s parental responsibility.

(4) As soon as possible after making its decision, the agency must notify in writing —

(a) the parent or guardian, if their whereabouts are known to the agency; and

(b) where regulation 14(2) applies, the father of the child,

of its decision.

(5) Where the adoption agency decides the proposed placement should proceed the agency must, in an appropriate manner and in the light of the child’s age and understanding, explain its decision to the child.