House of Commons · Westminster Hall
14 January 2025 · 4 other contributors · 5,770 words
Opened by Lisa Smart Lib Dem Hazel Grove
Responding minister: Andrew Western
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Lisa Smart raised concerns about adoptive parents: financial support in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key points
Key requests to Government
I urge Departments across Government to prioritise financial support for self-employed adopters and extend statutory adoption pay or introduce an equivalent benefit to ensure that all prospective adopters receive the same level of support as employed individuals.
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
The case of Kirsty highlights a significant gap in the financial support system that discourages self-employed individuals from adopting. Despite statutory guidance allowing local authorities to make discretionary means-tested payments, such support is not guaranteed and only 66% of local authorities have any policy for providing this assistance, leaving many adoptive parents with no financial safety net.
The hon. Member acknowledged the significant improvements made by previous Governments and paid tribute to efforts like the introduction of adoption leave and additional support funds for adopted children. Spoke about local council roles in decision making, importance of clarity and funding for local authorities, and early childhood development understanding.
Acknowledges the work of kinship carers who are crucial in providing care and support for children.
He praised the hon. Member for Hazel Grove and discussed his work in Northern Ireland on adoption legislation, highlighting the need for immediate action to improve support for adoptive parents. The hon. Member for South Antrim highlighted local government experience in Northern Ireland and raised concerns about spiralling statistics of children in care, emphasizing the importance of sustainable adoption.
The hon. Member spoke about his personal experience as an adopted child and highlighted the importance of supporting self-employed individuals in adoption. He also mentioned the benefits of Home for Good, a service that supports adoption through faith-based communities. The hon. Member for Torbay questioned current funding levels for the Adoption Support Fund until April 2025 and highlighted the need to address stereotypes about adoption as receiving a baby, pointing out that many adoptive parents take time off work due to complex needs of adopted children. Discussed the adoption support fund and its future security, highlighting challenges faced by adoptive families.
Government Response
Andrew WesternThe Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions
Emphasizes the Government's commitment to supporting working families, noting reforms aimed at enhancing flexibility and assistance. Acknowledges the specific challenges faced by adoptive parents but reiterates that maternity payments are intended to protect women’s health rather than cover adoption-related costs.