Adopting a child in the UK
Who can adopt?
If you want to adopt a child, we will welcome your application if you are:
- legally allowed to live in the UK
- at least 21 years of age
- normally live in East Sussex
- single or one half of a couple that has been together for at least two years.
Can I adopt again?
If you have already adopted a child, you must re-apply if you want to adopt another child. You will be asked to give us evidence that you and the child you have already adopted are ready for another adoption.
Can I adopt my step-children?
Sometimes, when a parent gets married again, they want their new partner to adopt their children. For further information about this process, contact us and we will put you in touch with your local social work team.
What do I need to think about before applying?
Many people choose to adopt because they cannot have their own children and decide before they have had time to think about what childlessness or adoption would really mean to them.
If you are thinking about adoption, you must be sure why you want to adopt. Ask yourself what kind of child you want, what it will be like if you have a child later on, and what effect would it have on your existing children.
What will be expected of me?
You will need commitment and stamina, both emotionally and physically, to offer your adopted child a stable and secure childhood and young adulthood. This child may have lost one set of parents. We want to make sure that you can commit to bringing up a child until he or she has grown up.
We alsowant you to think about keeping in touch, at least by letter, with the birth family. We expect all adopted children to know that they have been adopted.
How do I apply?
When placing a child for adoption we have to be sure that adoption is right for you. Our adoption process enables us to get to know you better so we can match the right child to the right family.
Introducing adoptive families to children
Introducing children and their new parents is the first stage in a relationship that is hoped to last for life. Find out more about introductory planning meetings, when they take place and what happens at them.
