Adopters come from a variety of backgrounds and you can adopt a child in the UK if you are:
- single, married or unmarried
- from any ethnic or religious background
- heterosexual, lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender
- a homeowner or living in rented accommodation
- employed or on benefits
- have birth children or have adopted already
There are only 3 factors that will automatically stop you from adopting a child in England:
- You must be over 21 years of age.
- You must be a permanent resident in the UK and have been so for at least a year.
- You can’t adopt if you or anyone living in your household has a criminal conviction or has been cautioned for specified criminal offences against children and/or some sexual offences against adults
FAQS
Am I healthy enough to adopt?
Agencies want to know that you are fit and healthy enough to parent a child through to adulthood. Any serious illnesses or health conditions will need to be taken into consideration and you will be asked to have a medical.
Can I adopt if I’m disabled?
Being disabled doesn’t automatically exclude you from adopting a child. In some cases, experience of disability can be an advantage in raising an adopted child. Discuss your situation with your local adoption agency.
Will I need a spare bedroom?
Adoption Agencies normally prefer that prospective adopters have a spare bedroom for a child placed for adoption. There may be some flexibility, depending on the age of the child and the possibility of converting existing accommodation to create an extra bedroom.
I have a dog – will I be able to adopt?
Your adoption agency will need to be satisfied that any pets you own will not threaten the health or safety of a child children’s health or safety. Some children may suffer from allergies which would prevent placement with some pets.