If you are an adult who was adopted as a child and would like to find out more information about your adoption records or trace your birth family then South Gloucestershire Council's family placement team can help you. We offer counselling to all adopted people living in South Gloucestershire or adopted through South Gloucestershire Council in the past. If you were adopted through a court in England or Wales, the 1976 Adoption Act states that you are entitled to find out information relating to your birth and, if it still exists, have access to your adoption file.
Counselling interviews
People adopted before 12th November 1975 are required to attend a counselling interview with one of our social workers. This is required by law, as some parents and adopters may have been led to believe that the children being adopted would never be able to find out their original names or the names of their parents. These arrangements were made in good faith and it is important that adopted people who want to find out more about their origins should understand what it may mean for them and for others.
People adopted after 11th November 1975 may choose whether or not they wish to see a counsellor before they are given the information, which will lead to their birth record. We suggest that you might find it helpful to see a counsellor, as they may be able to offer practical advice and guidance as well as discussing any concerns or issues important to them.
Applications
Due to the demand for this service it may take a number of weeks to process an application to view your records or receive counselling.
For more information about accessing your records contact the family placement team or go to the Office for National Statistics.