In terms of the process, with the exception of applications to adopt step- children, the adoption process starts in the applicant's own local authority. The local authority assesses applicants and writes a social report. In the case of an inter-country adoption, the application will then be forwarded to the relevant Regional Office for processing. If the application is granted, it is forwarded to one of the three accredited adoption organisations in Norway: Children of the World - Norway, InorAdopt or Adopsjonsforum. These organisations are responsible for finding children for the applicants. It is important to note that the processing time may vary considerably from one country of adoption to another. In cases where consent for adoption has not been granted, applicants may appeal to the Directorate for Children, Children and Family Affairs.