Alternatives to Step Parent adoption

Frequently asked questions How do I apply?

Parental Responsibility Agreement

The easiest way to give your new partner or another member of your family parental responsibility is by completing a parental responsibility agreement. This works well where everyone with parental responsibility agrees to share it with another adult. 

A step parent married to a birth parent may obtain parental responsibility if all those with parental responsibility give consent to the agreement.

You will need this C(PRA2) form.

Parental Responsibility Order

This is a court order that specifies that a named person has parental responsibility for a child. Parental responsibility is then shared between the holder and any birth parent who already has parental responsibility (or anyone who has also acquired parental responsibility by way of a court order).

Child Arrangement Order

Where those with parental responsibility cannot agree, then you may need the assistance of the court to get parental responsibility extended to your new partner or other. A Child Arrangement Order specifies the name of the person or persons with whom a child is to live. The named person automatically acquires parental responsibility for the child, and this is shared with anyone else who has parental responsibility for the child (usually birth parents). The order lasts until the child reaches the age of 16 or 18.

Name Change

For those parents wishing to change a child’s surname, adoption is not required, and this can be achieved easily. The first step would be to seek the advice of a solicitor.

We advise you to fully explore the options above prior to considering adoption; they are quicker, easier, and in our view, often more suitable than applying for an adoption order for most families. The above options can be dealt with yourselves or by the court and usually do not require involvement from children’s services.

For more information about any of the above options visit: www.gov.uk/child-adoption/adopting-a-stepchild