Frequently asked questions about adopting
Common questions about adoption answered.
| Question | Answer |
| I live in rented accommodation. Will I be able to adopt? | Yes. You do not have to own your own house to be able to adopt but you do need to have sufficient space to accommodate a child. |
| I have a low income. Will I be able to adopt? | Yes. You do not need to have a high income. In certain circumstances and depending on the needs of the child, you may be entitled to a means-tested adoption allowance, which is paid for by your council. You may also be entitled to other benefits available to any other family, dependent on your means and circumstances. |
I have a criminal record. Will I be able to adopt? | It depends what you have been convicted for. The law does not allow anyone to adopt or foster a child if they, or a member of their household, has been convicted or cautioned for offences against children. |
Do you have to live in England to adopt? | No, but you, or in the case of a married couple one of you, must be domiciled in the United Kingdom, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man. |
| Who approves people to adopt children? | Adoption agencies make this decision. An adoption agency is your council or a voluntary adoption agency which has been approved by the Secretary of State for Health. You cannot be assessed or approved to adopt by an independent social worker. |
| What is an adoption panel? | An adoption panel is a body of people who are empowered to consider a number of things. |
If I am approved to adopt, what information will the adoption agency give me about the child? | Supplying information to adoptive parents is a legal requirement. |
| Adoption is not right for me, but I am interested in looking after a child. | You may be interested in providing a temporary home to children who the council is looking after because they cannot go home for a little while. |
Is it possible for us to adopt and both continue working full time? | A lot will depend on the needs of the child. All children who are placed for adoption will have had some disruption in their lives and need stability. |
| I already have children. Would I still be considered? | All families and children are unique. The skill lies in bringing together the right child and family. |
