WIREDGOV

The Government has published the appointment letter for the new Ministerial Adviser on Adoption. Martin Narey was appointed to the post on 12 July 2011.

Welcoming Martin Narey's appointment, Children's Minister Tim Loughton said:

I'm really excited Martin has agreed to take on this role. His recent report for The Times was a timely reminder of just how adoption can transform the lives of children in care. Martin has huge understanding and passion for adoption and we have been working closely for some time to get a better deal for children in care. While there are some points we differ on, I share the vision set out in Martin's report.

Currently, too few children in care who are suitable for adoption are being given the chance to benefit from a loving and stable home. Over the past year I have been working to raise the profile of adoption, reduce delays in the system and tackle persistently held myths that deter adoptive parents. New guidance, issued earlier this year, makes very clear that it is unacceptable for children to be left in the care system when there are potentially suitable adoptive families waiting to adopt.

But we need to do more. Martin is ideally placed to act as a strong advocate for adoption. He will be visiting local authorities across the country to shine a light on good practice and question poor decision-making which may be denying children the opportunity of adoption.

I'm delighted Martin's appointment has been welcomed by many in the sector. I know some professionals have expressed doubts about the appointment, but I am convinced that we not only need  to  change guidance and practice, but also the mindset of some professionals who haven't treated adoption with the priority it deserves.

Further information:

The appointment letter is available to download from this page.

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