The dream of raising a family is deeply personal, and the journey to parenthood takes many forms. Around 3,000 children are adopted each year in England, so there’s an opportunity for more individuals and couples to open their hearts and homes to kids who need loving, stable environments.
If you’re exploring your options for starting or expanding your family, there are a few things to consider so you know if adoption is right for you.
How adoption works in the UK
Adoption starts with an application to your local council or a voluntary adoption agency. They will then conduct a thorough assessment to ensure you can provide a safe and nurturing home. This involves home visits, interviews, and background checks.
If you’re approved, a social worker will visit you several times and prepare a report about you for a panel of people with experience of the adoption process. They will recommend whether you should be approved.
Once approved, which usually takes around six months, the process of finding a child to welcome into your family begins. You’ll be carefully matched with a child based on your circumstances and their needs.
Am I eligible to adopt?
You can adopt if you’re single, married, in a civil partnership or cohabiting. There’s no upper age limit, but you must be over 21. You don’t have to own your own home or be a British citizen, but you must have a fixed and permanent home in the UK and have lived in the country for at least a year.
The most important factor is your ability to provide a devoted and secure home for a child. Adoption agencies will consider your health, financial circumstances and your commitment to providing a supportive environment.
Preparing emotionally and practically
Take time to think fully about the commitment involved in raising a child, including the financial responsibilities and the potential challenges you might face. Children who are adopted may have experienced trauma or loss, and they may need extra support and understanding.
Think about the parenting style you’ll use and how you’ll build a strong attachment with your child. Attend preparation classes and connect with other adoptive parents to gain valuable insights and build a support network.
Understanding your rights and responsibilities
Adoption creates a permanent legal relationship between you and your child. You’ll have full parental responsibility, making decisions about their upbringing and wellbeing.
Formulate a plan for how you’ll discuss adoption with your child and support their identity development. You’ll also potentially need to navigate issues such as contact with birth family members.
Finding support on your adoption journey
There’s a wealth of services available to help you every step of the way. Adoption agencies offer ongoing support and guidance, and you can connect with other adoptive families through in-person groups and online forums.
These communities provide a safe space to share experiences, ask questions and access valuable resources. You can also seek advice from children’s solicitors who specialise in family law to ensure you fully understand the legal aspects of the process.
Adoption is a profound act of love. By carefully considering all the relevant information and seeking support as soon as you can, you can embark on this incredible journey with confidence and create a loving family.
