Friends

Intercountry Adoption Centre Remit

IAC exists to advance the well-being of intercountry adopted children, adopted adults and their families by providing information, advice, consultancy, support and training, and by promoting good practice in intercountry adoption.

IAC has a unique position as it is the sole specialist organisation dedicated to intercountry adoption preparation, training, support, professional consultancy and consultation on legislation, both here and abroad.

Who benefits from the work of IAC?

The child is at the heart of all IAC services and in that sense it is the children placed for adoption with families in the UK who are the ultimate beneficiaries. But at the start of the process the free telephone Advice Line, manned by experienced intercountry adoption specialists, is often the first point of contact for public and professionals alike. We receive at least 4,000 calls each year from people seeking advice about the intercountry adoption process and to discuss their interest and concerns with an advisor. A Consultation Day is offered regularly through the year for people whom, at the earliest stages of this complex process, are given space and information to assist them in taking a first step towards intercountry adoption. Would-be adopters are then referred by their LAs or VAAs to attend a three-day Preparation Course which takes place either in our offices in Barnet or in regional training centres and greater exploration of the issues takes place. Problems such as health, race, culture, religion, language, diet, identity, resilience, loss and attachment are all addressed. Approximately 40 training programmes are run each year with an average attendance of 16 applicants. Training of prospective adopters leads to a heightened awareness of the complex needs of children abroad who have most likely suffered the long lasting effects of early separation from birth parents and subsequent institutional care. IAC also runs training and provides support for adoption social workers and adoption panel members ensuring their awareness of the most up-to-date research outcomes, legislative changes and best practice.

IAC’s income

For the first time , IAC received a small government grant this year. Otherwise it derives its revenue from subscribing organisations and very limited grant funding and donations. Turnover this year (2005/06) is estimated to be £240,000.

Costs of the Advice Line alone amount to in excess of £63,000 every year.

How can I help?

You can help by joining our Friends scheme and pledging a small amount to us each month. This will help us to ensure that skilled advisors are available to answer the many and varied queries we receive on the Advice Line. In return for your support you will receive a twice-yearly newsletter to keep you up-to-date with the organisation and the world of intercountry adoption, an invitation to the annual Friends event, an opportunity to become more involved by joining the Friends Committee and much more. Download the Friends application form and join us today.

Download application forms and information sheets

Friends Application form (rtf)

Friends Application form (pdf)

Friends factsheet (rtf)

Friends factsheet (pdf)

Friends Update - June 05 (rtf)

Friends Update - June 05 (pdf)

Website design: Frank Roper
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