ed with adoptive parents. Chapter 4 explains the duties of an adoption agency when it proposes to place a child with an adoptive family. It includes guidance on matching arrangements, the use of the Adoption Register, and the importance of minimising delay. It reminds agencies that a child’s ethnicity is not the primary consideration in deciding the type of adoptive family for the child; adoption agencies must give due consideration to the child’s religious persuasion, racial origin and cultural and linguistic background, but should not delay placing a child if an otherwise suitable adoptive family is available. Chapter 5 explains the duties of an adoption agency where it places a child for adoption; when it reviews the child’s case; where consent to placement is withdrawn; where a placement is terminated; and in preparing the life story book and later life letter. The remaining chapters cover a range of issues that may arise during and after the adoption process. Chapter 6 contains guidance on the storage of and access to adoption records both before and after adoption Further detailed guidance on access to adoption records after adoption is contained in chapter 11. Chapter 7 contains guidance on contact issues. Chapter 8 provides guidance on court proceedings for placement and adoption orders, and on the writing of court reports for adoption cases, including non-agency adoptions. Chapter 9 sets out the duties of local authorities for the provision of adoption support services, including assessment for adoption support services and financial support, and the making of an adoption support plan. Chapter 10 explains the regulations with regard to access to information and intermediary services in respect of adoptions which took place before 30 December 2005, when the Act 