Provision of Independent Review Mechanism (IRM) for Fostering and Adoption 2024-2027

The Department for Education has appointed a contractor for the provision of the Independent Review Mechanism (IRM) for Fostering and Adoption 2024 -2027 services. The Independent Review Mechanism provides an essential statutory service to prospective and existing foster parents, adopters and adult adoptees. The main function of the IRM is to offer an objective and independent route for applicants to request a review of decisions made by fostering and adoption services about their approval status and access to their records. The service offered by the IRM is unique within the sector and enables applicants to have their case heard by an independent panel of children's social care experts. The service is provided for in regulations and represents an important means of support, and a form of advocacy, for applicants. The contract will become effective (Contract Effective date) on 1 April 2024. The initial contract term will be 24 months (01/04/24 - 31/03/26) and include an option to extend it for the additional period of 12 months until 31/03/2027. The optional extension period is not guaranteed and will be at the absolute discretion of The Department. Any extension will be subject to the Departments approval process, availability of budget and current performance of the supplier.