Health Minister supports launch of new adoption information database

Health Minister Michael McGimpsey has given his support to the introduction of an Adoption Regional Information System (ARIS) for Northern Ireland.

ARIS is a regional database that will provide agencies with centralised, up-to-date information to help facilitate earlier matches for children awaiting adoption. It will be managed by the British Association for Adoption and Fostering (BAAF) which has been funded for three years to set up, establish, develop and maintain the database in Northern Ireland.

Mr McGimpsey said: “Permanent and safe placement of children waiting for adoption at the earliest possibly opportunity is essential for a child’s long term health and wellbeing. ARIS is just the tool to support professionals throughout Northern Ireland identify suitable adoptive parents. It places the best interest of the children at the fore.”

“Furthermore I have no doubt that ARIS will also allow us to identify areas where more support may be needed and help professionals to plan effectively to address these needs.

Mr McGimpsey concluded: “I wish BAAF continued success with this project which undoubtedly will change young peoples’ lives for the better.”

Notes to editors:

1. BAAF has been granted funding for three years by the Department of Health to set up develop and maintain the Adoption Regional Information System.

2. The purpose of ARIS is to centralize the information previously held by the Trusts relating to adoption on one database. This will increase a child’s chances of being matched in a quicker timeframe as well as allowing all Trusts to search an entire system as opposed to just concentrating within their own area.

3. The proposal to create a centralized database for adoption information came out of the Adopting the Future consultation, launched in June 2006.

4. Information on Adopting the Future can be found on the DHSSPS website.

5. For further information, please contact the DHSSPS Press Office on 028 9052 2841. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number on 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.