Early Permanence, sometimes called Fostering for Adoption, gives children the opportunity to live with a potential adoptive family at the earliest possible stage in their journey.
For many children, the uncertainty of moving between homes can be unsettling. Early Permanence helps to reduce the number of moves a child experiences, offering stability and consistency when they need it most.
How does Early Permanence work?
Once you are approved as an adopter, you may choose to be considered for Early Permanence placements.
At this stage, a child’s long-term future may not yet be fully decided by the Court. If you are matched with a child under Early Permanence:
- You will be temporarily approved as a foster carer
- The child will live with you while legal decisions are being finalised
- You will work alongside social workers and the wider support network
When the Court makes its final decision:
- If adoption is agreed, you can usually go on to adopt the child
- In some cases, the plan may change, and the child may return to their birth family or be placed elsewhere
Because of this uncertainty, Early Permanence requires flexibility, resilience, and a strong understanding of the child’s needs.
The children waiting
Children who have an early permanence placement are typically younger children. Read these example profiles for Amelia and Samuel to understand the types of children waiting to find a home through early permanence.
Find out more
If you’re thinking about adopting and want to find out more, hear from some of our adopters from across the North West, or contact your local adoption agency.