K (Adoption Order: Final Hearing), Re

K (Adoption Order: Final Hearing), Re

It is in C’s best interests throughout his life to remain with the prospective adopters (FC). No lesser order than adoption will suffice for C’s need for permanence and stability. The parents’ ability and willingness are commendable, but the risks and C’s complex needs mean rehabilitation cannot be predicted with a high degree of confidence. An SGO is not appropriate as it lacks permanence. Adoption is proportionate and necessary.

Parties
Applicants: Prospective Adopters (FC); First Respondent: Central Bedfordshire Council; Second Respondent: Mother (M); Third Respondent: Father (F); Fourth Respondent: C, by his Children’s Guardian (Simon Bullen)
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
10 March 2025
Procedural Posture
Adoption Order Application / Final Hearing
Outcome
Adoption order granted in favour of the prospective adopters (FC).
Legal Topics
Adoption, Placement Order Revocation, Special Guardianship Order, Post Adoption Contact, Child Welfare, Parental Responsibility, Article 8 ECHR
Family Law Child Law Adoption Placement Order Revocation Special Guardianship Order Post Adoption Contact Child Welfare Parental Responsibility +1 more

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Parties

Prospective Adopters (FC)

Applicants

Central Bedfordshire Council

First Respondent

Mother (M)

Second Respondent

Father (F)

Third Respondent

C, by his Children’s Guardian (Simon Bullen)

Fourth Respondent

Procedural Posture

Adoption Order Application / Final Hearing

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether to grant an adoption order for C
  2. 2 Whether to revoke the placement order
  3. 3 Whether to grant a special guardianship order

Ratio Decidendi

It is in C’s best interests throughout his life to remain with the prospective adopters (FC). No lesser order than adoption will suffice for C’s need for permanence and stability. The parents’ ability and willingness are commendable, but the risks and C’s complex needs mean rehabilitation cannot be predicted with a high degree of confidence. An SGO is not appropriate as it lacks permanence. Adoption is proportionate and necessary.

Court Disposition

Adoption order granted in favour of the prospective adopters (FC).

Orders

  • Adoption order for C in favour of FC
  • Post-adoption contact template: two direct contacts and two indirect contacts per year