Decision Maker: Children and Young People Policy Committee

Outcome: Recommendations Approved (subject to call-in)

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: November 27, 2025

Purpose: 1. To consider options for the delivery of adoption services beyond the expiry of the current arrangements with Adoption West in February 2027. 2. To agree a delivery option and to delegate the development of future contracting arrangements to the Executive Director for Children and Education, returning to Committee for approval of this contract.

Content: The committee RESOLVED: (Unanimously)     1.      To approve in principle to continue with Adoption West as the preferred option for a Regional Adoption Agency beyond 2027.   2.      To authorise the Executive Director Children and Education in consultation with the Chair of the Children and Young People Committee to take all steps required to work with key stakeholders and partners to further develop the options for Adoption West as outlined in this report.   3.      To note the full background information at Appendix A prepared for the six Local Authorities and the Options Appraisal developed in relation to the recommendation at Exempt Appendix E.   4.      To note a further report will be brought back to Committee with options to consider for Adoption West beyond February 2027.   Contractual:   1.      To note there are no contractual obligations at this stage.  A further report will outline recommended contractual arrangements.   2.      To note the Adoption West partners are committed to seeking initial approval for a continuation of Adoption West in Q3 2025/26, allowing for up to 12 months of development work, and a final set of proposals to come back to Committee in Q3 2026/27, ahead of the expiry of the current arrangements in February 2027.