Early Permanence
Early Permanence also known as Fostering for Adoption (FFA)
Our little boy moved in at just 7 days old through FFA
Early Permanence via a process known as Fostering For Adoption (FFA) provides children with the opportunity to be placed earlier with a family than would otherwise be possible – that family is likely to go on to adopt the child.
Many people who want to adopt a new born or young baby may want to consider this route, but Early Permanence can be for children of all ages.
Once applicants are approved as suitable to adopt, if they are also able to offer Fostering for Adoption, they can be considered for children whose final care plans are still being considered in the court arena.
In these cases, prospective adopters can be temporarily approved as foster carers for the child until the Court makes a final decision.
If the Judge confirms that adoption is the best plan, the foster carers then become the child’s prospective adoptive parents and can later apply for an Adoption Order.
This approach helps children by reducing the number of moves they experience, minimising loss, and increasing stability. It also allows carers to build a relationship with the child earlier in the process, helping to lessen the trauma for everyone involved.
Training
There is a full day of training in the Stage 1 part of the process dedicated to Early Permanence which explains the benefits and the challenges it can bring. Your social worker will explore whether this route is right for you and your circumstances and can even link you in up with other families that have been through the process.