The adoption process
If you are interested in adopting a child who is not a relative or step-child, you should complete an initial enquiry form.
After your initial enquiry, a social worker will contact you and arrange a visit to talk about:
- the processes involved
- our expectations
- what you can expect of us
The assessment will involve meeting with you a couple of times at your home. We will talk to you about:
- your past and present circumstances
- your family
- your experience of looking after children
- your health and other issues
You will need to have statutory checks undertaken. We will also need to ask employers, friends and families for references. Your referees will be sent a questionnaire to complete, following which the assessing social worker will meet to interview them.
It usually takes 6 months from your initial enquiry to becoming an approved adopters, but may sometimes take longer. Once this is completed we can start the process of matching you with a child, or children.