With National Adoption Week kicking off, our Parent and Carers EDI Network want to highlight the importance of providing safe and loving homes for children across the country. Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to share information about adoption and raise awareness around the challenges that still exist.
- In 2023, 2,960 children were adopted in the UK, marking a 2% decrease from 2022.
- The Consortium of Voluntary Adoption Agencies (CVAA) reported that children with disabilities and behavioural issues waited an average of 11 months longer to be placed with a family.
- As of December 31, 2023, 2,410 children in England were ready for adoption but had yet to find a family, according to the charity Coram.
- The average age of a child adopted in the UK is 3 years and 5 months.
- While official figures don’t exist, it’s estimated that there are at least 55,000 adoptive families in the UK, according to Adoption UK’s extrapolations based on the annual number of adoptions.
These statistics remind us of the ongoing need for families to step forward and the vital role adoption plays in giving children a brighter future.
A few years ago one of our colleagues shared his story on adopting two brothers O and L - you can read about Russell's adoption journey here
FAQs
What is adoption?
Adoption is the legal process through which a child or siblings who cannot be raised by their birth family become full, permanent members of a new family. Adopters gain the same rights and responsibilities as if the child were born to them. Most adopted children have spent time in foster care, with foster families rather than in foster homes, and the length of time in care can vary from days to several years. Many children experience multiple foster placements before being adopted. Research shows that adopted children generally have better outcomes compared to those who remain in foster care or move in and out of care.
Who can adopt a child in England?
To adopt, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be over 21 years old
- Be legally resident in the UK, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man for at least 12 months
- Have no criminal convictions or cautions for offences against children or serious sexual offences (this applies to everyone in your household).
While other factors will be considered, none will automatically disqualify you. The key requirement is that you are resilient and capable of prioritisng the needs of your adopted child.
What types of adoption are available in England?
There are several types of adoption in England:
- Domestic Adoption: Adopting a child from within the UK.
- International Adoption: Adopting a child from another country.
- Fostering to Adopt: Caring for a child who may be placed for adoption while fostering.
- Stepchild Adoption: A step-parent adopting their partner's child.
How long does the adoption process take?
The adoption process usually takes between 6 to 12 months from the time you apply. The exact length varies depending on the circumstances, including the child’s needs and your individual case.
How much does it cost to adopt a child in England?
Adopting through local authorities in England is generally free. However, there may be some costs involved in private or international adoptions, such as legal fees, home study assessments, or travel expenses.
What is the assessment process for adoptive parents?
The adoption process varies in different parts of the UK, but the basics are the same:
- Registration of Interest: A formal expression of interest.
- Assessment Stage: Home visits, background checks, and interviews by social workers to evaluate your suitability.
- Approval Panel: A panel reviews the assessment and makes a recommendation.
- Matching: After approval, the agency will work to match you with a child.
Can I adopt if I already have children?
Yes, you can adopt even if you have biological or stepchildren. Adoption agencies will assess your family situation to ensure it’s a suitable environment for an adopted child.
What support is available after adoption?
Post-adoption support includes:
Financial Assistance: Some adoptive families may be eligible for adoption allowances.
Counselling: Support services are available for both parents and children to address emotional or psychological issues.
Parenting Workshop: Ongoing training or workshops to support adoptive families.
What is the difference between adoption and fostering?
Adoption is a permanent legal arrangement, while fostering is usually a temporary placement where carers look after children until they can return to their birth families or be adopted
How do I start the adoption process in England?
To begin the adoption process, contact a local authority adoption agency or a voluntary adoption agency. They will provide you with guidance, support, and help you through the steps of the process.
What is the "Adoption Order?
An Adoption Order is a legal document issued by the court that officially makes the adoptive parents the legal parents of the child. It severs the legal ties between the child and their birth family.
Can birth parents contest an adoption?
In some cases, birth parents may try to contest an adoption, but courts only grant adoption orders if they are satisfied it is in the child’s best interests. If the birth parents disagree with the adoption, they must provide evidence to the court to justify why it should not proceed.
What rights do adopted children have?
Adopted children have the same rights as biological children, including inheritance rights, citizenship rights, and protection under UK law.
Can an adopted child contact their birth family?
Adopted children have the right to access their adoption records once they turn 18. They can then choose to contact their birth family if they wish, but this must be done carefully and with professional support.
What is a Life Story Book?
A Life Story Book is a tool used to help adopted children understand their personal history and adoption journey. It usually contains information about their birth family, their early life, and their adoption process, presented in a child-friendly way.