URL: https://glostext.gloucestershire.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=2535

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose: To seek in principal approval for continued participation in Adoption West (AW).  

Content: To seek in principal approval for continued participation in Adoption West (AW).   Cllr Ben Evans sought Cabinet approval in principle for continued participation in Adoption West (AW).   Having considered all of the information, Cabinet noted the report and   RESOLVED to:   1. Approve, in principle, Gloucestershire County Council’s continued participation in Adoption West as their preferred option for a Regional Adoption Agency (RAA), beyond February 2027 when the current arrangements with Adoption West expire.   2. Ask the Director of Childrens Services to continue to work with key stakeholders and partners to further develop Adoption West, taking account of: -  The direction of national policy as it relates to adoption, adoption support and other forms of permanence, and opportunities to expand or enhance Adoption West’s remit. - The operational experience gained since March 2019.   - A comprehensive review of resourcing, structures and oversight to ensure Adoption West operates on a sustainable basis, providing value for money for the participating LAs and delivers good outcomes for children, young people and their adoptive families; and   - Local Government Reform proposals.   *Approval to implement revised proposals in respect of Adoption West beyond February 2027 shall be the subject of a future Cabinet report once the above work with stakeholders and partners has been completed.

Date of Decision: November 3, 2025