Common questions and concerns
Many people have the same questions and concerns about adoption. You can find the answers to some of the most common below.
I'm worried how adoption will affect my existing children
All families describe their experience of adoption as a positive one, despite the potential for rivalry between children.
Research suggests an age gap of at least two years between the children in your family and the adopted child to help minimise competition for your attention and make it easier to meet each child's needs,
Children have said:
"Having someone to care for and look after and be their role model makes you feel really proud. He might say stuff, but you know he doesn’t mean it... You help him grow out of it."
What if the child does not bond with me?
Before you formally adopt, you will have plenty of opportunities to get to know the child over a period of time.
At the beginning there will be planned meetings where you can get to know each other. This will progress to visits to your home where you will be supported by your social worker.
You will have the opportunity to learn as much as you can about the child you want to adopt and speak to others who have been closely involved with them.
We will continue to visit and support you until you are ready to legally adopt the child.
After the adoption order has been granted, we will continue to support to you based on your individual needs.
I'm worried about how intrusive the approval process might be
Your social worker will get to know you and your family. We are not here to be judgemental and we will deal sensitively with the information that you give us. You will be provided with a copy of the prospective adopter's report and will be able to comment on it.
I've heard the approval process is long and complex. Is this true?
We need to be as sure as we can be that you have what it takes to give the best life chances to a vulnerable child. We make every effort to be clear and open about the process, to address your concerns and to work within an agreed time frame.
Adopting a child is a life changing decision for all involved and you do need the time to assess and absorb the information you are given.
I'm concerned about the emotional stress involved
The process can be demanding but we will support you every step of the way and give you the time that you need to deal with the emotional pressures of becoming an approved adoptive parent.
Still have questions?
If you have any more questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to get in touch. We'd love to hear from you.