(1)This section and section 20 apply to any person ( “the former parent”) who was required to be given an opportunity of making a declaration under section 18(6) but did not do so.
(2)Within the 14 days following the date 12 months after the making of the order under section 18 the adoption agency [F1to which parental responsibility was given] on the making of the order, unless it has previously by notice to the former parent informed him that an adoption order has been made in respect of the child, shall by notice to the former parent inform him—
(a)whether an adoption order has been made in respect of the child, and (if not)
(b)whether the child has his home with a person with whom he has been placed for adoption.
(3)If at the time when the former parent is given notice under subsection (2) an adoption order has not been made in respect of the child, it is thereafter the duty of the adoption agency to give notice to the former parent of the making of an adoption order (if and when made), and meanwhile to give the former parent notice whenever the child is placed for adoption or ceases to have his home with a person with whom he has been placed for adoption.
(4)If at any time the former parent by notice makes a declaration to the adoption agency that he prefers not to be involved in future questions concerning the adoption of the child—
(a)the agency shall secure that the declaration is recorded by the court which made the order under section 18, and
(b)the agency is released from the duty of complying further with subsection (3) as respects that former parent.
Textual Amendments
F1Words in s. 19(2) substituted (14.10.1991) by Children Act 1989 (c. 41, SIF 20), ss. 88, 108, Sch. 10 para.7 (with Sch. 14 para. 1(1)); S.I. 1991/828, art. 3(2)