Forced Adoption: Is it happening today?

The number of children taken into care before they reach their first birthday is at a worryingly and persistently high level, according to new figures. In many of those cases it is unsafe for parents to look after their children - but experts believe that a significant number of those babies might not have gone into care, if the right support was in place.

This programme investigates the support birth families receive and how much of a voice they are given once care proceedings begin. Figures suggest that most children who go on to be adopted are taken into care as babies. Ninety percent of adoptions happen without the written consent of birth parents. It’s led to some using the term ‘modern day forced adoption’ and to calls for a debate about the system.

File on 4 Investigates hears about one project in Salford which has been praised for the support it gives to birth families, cutting the number of children going into care and being adopted. In response to our findings Adoption England say that the process provides "children with a permanent, stable and loving family" adding that "Without adoption, the vast majority of these children will remain in care throughout their childhood and, as extensive research shows" they experience "significantly worse outcomes".

The government says it is putting £2.4bn into “transforming the children’s social care system” in England and say they want to increase support for children to stay with their family wherever possible.

Presenter: Judith Moritz
Senior Producers: Claire Kendall & Ashley Kennedy
Production Co-ordinators: Tim Fernley & Tom Dunster
Technical Producer: Nicky Edwards
Editor: Tara McDermott

For details of organisations which offer advice and information with adoption and fostering, go online to bbc.co.uk/actionline.

Image: Jean and Tye, who is now an adult, are back in contact.