od of introductions. What is important is that both the child and prospective adopter feel well prepared before the placement and are happy with the pace of the introductions and the date of placement. 5.6. As soon as possible after the planning meeting, the agency must send the prospective adopter the adoption placement plan. This will set out the information required in Schedule 5 of the AAR, and will be the basis on which the prospective adopter will make their formal decision whether to accept the placement. In some cases, for example if there is any disagreement or uncertainty about the proposed adoption support arrangements, the prospective adopter may wish to take some time to consider the proposal, and take advice if necessary. 12 Neil, E., Young, J., Cossar, J., Jones, C. and Lorgelly, P. (2010) Supporting direct contact after adoption, Adoption Research Initiative study. 95 5.7. Once the prospective adopter has notified the agency that they wish to proceed with the placement, the agency may make the placement (subject to paragraph 1 above, and AAR 35.3 and 4). The agency should keep the child’s current carer informed of the placement arrangements and – having regard to the child’s age and understanding – inform the child in an appropriate manner. Where the child is already living with the prospective adopter, such as a foster carer, the agency must notify them in writing of the date on which the child’s placement with them becomes a placement for adoption. If financial support is to be paid under the adoption support plan this will be paid as from the formal ‘placement’ date and any fostering allowance will cease from that point. 5.8. Before making the placement the agency must give the notifications required by AAR 35.6. These are important in ensuring as smo