Giving up a child for adoption is a way of ending the legal relationship between the biological parents and a child.
If the biological parents of the child are alive, they must both consent to the adoption.
Consent must be voluntary and may not be rewarded with cash, gifts or in any other way. However, consent of a parent who is mentally ill, has deserted the child or has ill-treated the child, is not required.
Both the mother and the father must sign the consent form to allow the adoption by a specific person or couple.
If the biological parents are not married, the mother must first get the consent of the biological father. However she only needs to do this if the pregnancy was not the result of violence, and if the father acknowledges in writing that he is the father and has made his identity and address available.
Biological parents can withdraw their consent within 60 days of giving their consent.
If the child is ten years or older, the child must also consent to the adoption.
If the child is in foster care, the foster parents must also certify that they do no wish to adopt the child.
When the child is adopted all rights and duties between the child and its natural parents end. An adoption is final once the adoption order is finalised.
Putting a child up for adoption is a difficult thing to do and adoption agencies will provide support services to assist you. These can include counselling and even accommodation.
For more information contact your District Office of the Department of Social Development or an adoption agency in your area.