About adoption
Adoption is life changing. You become the legal parent of a child who cannot – for whatever reason – live with their birth parents. You’ll take on the same legal rights and responsibilities of a birth parent and provide a permanent home for the child you adopt.
Your child will take on your surname and become a member of your family for life. This differs from fostering, which involves looking after a child either for a short period of time, or until they reach adulthood.
When you adopt you give a child the love, stability and connection they deserve. In return, you gain lifelong family bonds and the chance to build or grow your family.
Who can adopt?
Adopters come from all walks of life. You need to be over 21 years old and to be able to look after a child until they become an adult and ideally be there to support them beyond this point.
You can be single, in a civil partnership, married or co-habiting; heterosexual or a member of the LGBTQ+ community - all applications are very welcome and treated equally.
You can adopt whether you rent or own your own home, as long as you have stable living arrangements and the space to accommodate a child.
What is the adoption process like?
From your first enquiry to welcoming your child home, the adoption process is a shared journey. Our experienced team will be by your side every step of the way.
There are six key stages in the adoption process, and it typically takes 6-9 months for adopters to be approved. It all starts though with your first conversation.
There are six key stages in the adoption process, and it typically takes 6-9 months for adopters to be approved. It all starts though with your first conversation.
Interested in adopting?
If you’re ready to start your adoption journey, please contact us to receive an Adoption Counts information pack, or to attend one of our virtual information events and/or request a call back.
