Adoption and
fostering: what to expect
Considering adoption or fostering? Well here's a guide to what to you should expect from each process.
What is the difference between Adoption and Fostering?
Adoption is a legal process where parental rights are permanently transferred from a child's birth parents to their adoptive parents.
Fostering is a temporary arrangement where a child is looked after for a period of time only—the local authority and, in some cases, the birth parents may share in the child's care too.
Am I eligible to be an adoptive / foster parent?
Adoption or fostering is open to you if you're over 21 (there is no upper age limit) and meet set requirements of a selection panel, after which you'll be assessed by a social worker.
Can I only care for a child of my own ethnicity?
Not necessarily. Adoption or fostering selectors prefer children to be brought up within their own culture but parents who'll commit to supporting a child's ethnicity will also be considered for adoption/fostering a child.
Are babies available for adoption / fostering?
Very few and, due to high demand, adoption or fostering of babies under 12 months tends to happen very quickly. There is, however, demand for people who'll consider adoption / fostering of a baby with special needs or who has an older sibling they need to be placed with.
Where do I start?
Contact an adoption / fostering agency in your area. Most agencies will consider applicants within a 50-mile radius. It usually takes around six months for assessments and preparation to be completed. This will include a police check, an examination by your GP and two character references from friends.
Considering adoption or fostering? Well here's a guide to what to you should expect from each process.
What is the difference between Adoption and Fostering?
Adoption is a legal process where parental rights are permanently transferred from a child's birth parents to their adoptive parents.
Fostering is a temporary arrangement where a child is looked after for a period of time only—the local authority and, in some cases, the birth parents may share in the child's care too.
Am I eligible to be an adoptive / foster parent?
Adoption or fostering is open to you if you're over 21 (there is no upper age limit) and meet set requirements of a selection panel, after which you'll be assessed by a social worker.
Can I only care for a child of my own ethnicity?
Not necessarily. Adoption or fostering selectors prefer children to be brought up within their own culture but parents who'll commit to supporting a child's ethnicity will also be considered for adoption/fostering a child.
Are babies available for adoption / fostering?
Very few and, due to high demand, adoption or fostering of babies under 12 months tends to happen very quickly. There is, however, demand for people who'll consider adoption / fostering of a baby with special needs or who has an older sibling they need to be placed with.
Where do I start?
Contact an adoption / fostering agency in your area. Most agencies will consider applicants within a 50-mile radius. It usually takes around six months for assessments and preparation to be completed. This will include a police check, an examination by your GP and two character references from friends.