BM v AM

BM v AM

Leave to apply for post-adoption direct contact is refused because there is an almost guaranteed risk of emotional harm and disruption to X’s welfare if direct contact were to occur now. The evidence, particularly from the CAMHS specialist, established that X is emotionally vulnerable and not ready for direct contact. The child’s welfare, stability, and ongoing therapeutic work take precedence. Indirect contact and life story work are sufficient at this stage.

Parties
Applicant: BM; First Respondent: AM; Second Respondent: BF; Third Respondent: X (Through her Children’s Guardian); Interested Party: The London Borough of Southwark
Jurisdiction
England and Wales
Judgment Date
01 September 2025
Procedural Posture
Family / Judgment on Application for Leave to Seek Post Adoption Contact
Outcome
Leave to apply for post-adoption direct contact refused.
Legal Topics
Adoption, Post Adoption Contact, Leave to Apply for Contact, Child Welfare, Indirect Contact, Life Story Work
Family Law Child Law Adoption Post Adoption Contact Leave to Apply for Contact Child Welfare Indirect Contact Life Story Work

Case Brief

Summary, issues, holding and outcome

More case intelligence is available

Unlock the full research layer for this judgment.

Full judgment text Downloadable case file Legal principles 4 Authorities cited 7 Party arguments 2
Sign in to unlock

Parties

BM

Applicant

AM

First Respondent

BF

Second Respondent

X (Through her Children’s Guardian)

Third Respondent

The London Borough of Southwark

Interested Party

Procedural Posture

Family / Judgment on Application for Leave to Seek Post Adoption Contact

Legal Issues

  1. 1 Whether the birth mother (BM) should be granted leave to apply for post-adoption direct contact with her adopted child (X)
  2. 2 Whether direct contact is in the best interests of the child at this time
  3. 3 Whether indirect contact and life story work should be formalised

Ratio Decidendi

Leave to apply for post-adoption direct contact is refused because there is an almost guaranteed risk of emotional harm and disruption to X’s welfare if direct contact were to occur now. The evidence, particularly from the CAMHS specialist, established that X is emotionally vulnerable and not ready for direct contact. The child’s welfare, stability, and ongoing therapeutic work take precedence. Indirect contact and life story work are sufficient at this stage.

Court Disposition

Leave to apply for post-adoption direct contact refused.

Orders

  • BM refused leave to apply for direct contact with X.
  • The local authority is directed to finalise life story work by end of January 2025.