Challenging a rejection from an adoption agency

Things to consider

Rejection from an adoption agency can take a significant emotional toll on those wishing to adopt. Therefore, before reapplying or challenging the rejection, potential adoptive parents must consider all of the reasons behind the rejection to see if they can realistically be overcome. If they can, then they need to consider how long will it take to rectify them, and how they will demonstrate to the agency that they have been resolved. They should also appreciate the potential emotional trauma of a prolonged review process or whether another rejection would be too much for all concerned?

 

How can I challenge a rejection?

If rejected following an application to an adoption agency, it does not necessarily mean it is the end of the road. There are several options available to those who have been prevented from adopting by an agency for reasons they feel unfair.

• Those rejected from the adoption process are entitled to find out why and receive reasoning from the assessment panel following the refusal. It is essential to consider if the reason is fair or resolvable before deciding to challenge the decision.
• Speak to another agency - Those who have been rejected by one agency can still apply to adopt through another agency. Make a note of why you have been rejected and attempt to resolve this issue before reapplying via another agency. Different agencies have different priorities and immediate needs, therefore those trying to adopt may have more luck with another agency.
• Alternatively, those who have been or are going to be rejected by an agency for a reason they feel is unfair can appeal to them to review the application again.
• If this is unsuccessful, prospective adopters may wish to seek review from an independent body. In England, Independent Review Mechanisms can undertake this. In Wales, requests to review applications should be directed to the Independent Review Mechanism Wales. This process is free of charge.

It is important to remember that Independent Review Mechanism panels cannot overrule or change the decision made by the agency. However, they can make recommendations, which encourage adoption agencies to reconsider an application.

 

How we can help

Lestons can intervene and put forward mitigating factors that were the reason for the rejection. To gain our assistance you need to open a case, this is done by taking advantage of our free consultation service, activated by the link at the top of the page, should you wish to start a case the caseworker will send you the suitable payment link.

Please note your caseworker can only give generic advice, their role is to prepare your details for handling by our legal team and to act as your point of contact, they will also issue you with your Password and PIN, these will be needed to log onto your client dashboard. From your dashboard you will be able to manage and view every aspect of your case, upload documents, images, files etc.