Can i get access to my adopted childs records if they are over 21 and were born in scotland?

Question

Can i get access to my adopted childs records if they are over 21 and were born in scotland?

Answer 1

The National Archives of Scotland  (NAS) offer excellent advice for those individuals over age 16 who wish to see their adoption records.  I've summarized this information below as well as referring you to several helpful links.

1) Identify the agency that arranged the adoption.  You have the statutory right under the Adoption Act of 1978 to receive counseling.  Accordingly, the following agencies provide services that will help you find your adoption records and possibly deal with the potentially emotionally upsetting information they contain:

---Barnado's Scottish Adoptive Advice Service

---Birthlink

---The Scottish Adoption Association

---Adoption Search and Reunion

2) Although adoption records are closed to general public access for 100 years, if you are over 16, you may produce a birth certificate along with independent proof of identity (for example, a driver's license or passport) to gain access to your file. NAS suggests that you call before you come in person: 0131 535 1359.

3) To locate an adoption, employees at the NAS need to know the adopted person's name, the date of the adoption, and the court that dealt with the adoption.  Obtain this information from the Registrar General of Scotland.

Good luck!