Two foster parents have been refused the chance to adopt a baby they’ve raised for a year because they’re too old.
The couple, both in their 50s, have cared for the girl since last March after the 17-year-old natural mother asked them to help out ‘for a while.’
Although recognised as the infant’s private foster carers and having spent their savings on equipment to care for her, Reading Borough Council is opposing the plea.
“The council has used us when it was useful to them but now we are being dumped,” said the 59-year-old woman, reports The Daily Mail.
“They say they are putting her interests first, but she is so happy here with us,” added her 53-year-old husband.
The Council are arguing the pair from Whitley, who cannot be named for legal reasons, are too old and are asking the court to place the child with another family.
"They say that we are too old - that with my health it will not be long before [the baby girl] becomes my carer," added the foster mum, who is asthmatic.
The 13-month-old's health and weight have improved since the carers took her in and the child’s natural parents have told the court they want their daughter left with them.
“The council’s absolute priority in any fostering or adoption case is to try and ensure the best long term future for children,” said Oscar Mortali, RBC spokesman.
The case has been adjourned until March.
Read more…
· Government’s new drive for speeding up adoption
· Children over 10 in foster care are being forgotten, says charity
· Frank Skinner to be a dad at 55
