Prepare for adoption
Helping you to understand what adoption involves and what you need to consider before applying to adopt a child.
Preparing to adopt a child is a big decision. It can take time to understand what’s involved and to feel ready.
This guide explains what to think about before you apply, and how to get ready.
What adoption involves
Adoption is a lifelong commitment to care for a child who cannot live with their birth family.
Many children waiting for adoption:
- are older
- are part of a sibling group
- may have experienced trauma or neglect
- may have additional needs
You will need to be ready to support a child’s emotional, physical and developmental needs over time.
Think about your situation
Before you apply, consider whether adoption is right for you and your household.
Be clear about why you want to adopt. Adoption is about parenting and meeting a child’s needs who has experienced trauma early in their lives.
You’ll need support from family, friends or your community. Parenting an adopted child can be challenging at times.
Children will need more time and attention, especially at the start but also at different stages as they grow up.
You will need time off work during introductions and after the child moves in and for one parent they will need to take adoption leave too
You need a safe and stable home. You do not have to own your property but you do need a spare room.
Learn about adoption
It’s important to understand the realities of adoption before applying. This will help you decide if adoption is right for you.
If you live with a partner, children or other family members, they should be involved in your decision.
Talk about:
- how adoption may change family life
- sharing attention and space
- supporting a child who may have experienced trauma
Your social worker will talk to everyone in your household during the assessment.
Adoption may affect your work and income, especially at the start.
You may be entitled to:
- adoption leave and pay
- adoption allowances (in some cases)
- support for funding therapy
We will discuss your situation with you as part of the process.
The adoption assessment (sometimes called the “home study”) looks at your ability to meet a child’s needs.
You can prepare by:
- gathering information about your background and experiences
- thinking about your parenting style
- being open about your life, including any challenges
The assessment usually takes four months.
As well as spending time with your family and friends children and your own it is important to have time with children whom you don’t know too.
They may have different needs to children who you already know and you will develop a relationship with them in a different way.
Support does not stop once you adopt.
You will be able to access:
- training and workshops
- therapeutic support
- peer support groups for you and your child
- advice from social workers
We will work with you to find the right support for your family.
Next steps
The best place to start is to attend an information session.
Information sessions explain how adoption works, answer your questions and offer a follow‑up one‑to‑one chat if you want to take the next step.
You can also visit our blog to read about experiences from other adopters.
Have questions?
Our friendly team is here to help. Reach out today and let’s talk about your adoption journey.