This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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McConnell calls for action to reverse adoption decline
22/05/2001
More people need to come forward to adopt young people in care, Education Minister Jack McConnell said today.
Commenting on statistics showing a continuing fall in adoption applications, Mr McConnell highlighted the rewards of adoption for both children and parents:
"There are many vulnerable children in Scotland's care system who need a stable family environment. For too many years now there has been a declining number of adoption applications and less children are being placed with families. Modernising the system will help us change this.
"That is why I have set up a review of adoption practice in Scotland to break down the barriers to adoption. This should encourage more people to come forward as adopters and benefit from the personal rewards adoption can bring."
BACKGROUND
1. Statistics published today show that there were just over 400 adoption applications in 2000. This is a decrease of 50 applications from the previous year.
2. Mr McConnell set up an adoption policy review to look at adoption law and practice in Scotland. The group, chaired by former Sheriff Principal Graham Cox, is made up of professionals along with adoptive parents and young people. They are due to report back to the Minister before the end of the year. More detail of the Adoption Review Group is available on the Scottish Executive website at http://www.scotland.gov.uk/news/2001/04/se0916.asp
News Release: SE1309/2001
22 May 2001