Adoption

Adoption gives children who cannot live safely with their birth families a permanent, loving home. We are looking for people who can offer stability, care and lifelong commitment. If you are thinking about adoption, this page explains what is involved and how you can apply.

You can watch this film which features a couple and their adopted son to give you an insight into what it is like and the benefits that giving a child a loving family can provide.

Who can adopt

You can apply to adopt if you are over 21 and can offer a safe, supportive home. You can be single, married, in a civil partnership or living with a partner for at least three years. You do not need to own your home or have a high income, but you must have a spare room and be able to care for a child into adulthood.

We welcome applications from all backgrounds. If you smoke or vape, we cannot accept an application.

What children need

We have children of all ages who need permanent families. Many have experienced uncertainty and may need extra support as they grow. We especially need adopters who can consider:

• older children
• brothers and sisters
• children with disabilities or additional needs

What happens before you apply

You will be invited to a preparation group in Hamilton. These sessions help you understand children’s early experiences and what adoptive parenting involves. After the group, you can decide if you want to make a formal application.

The assessment process

If you choose to apply:

• you will complete an application form and give consent for checks
• a social worker will visit you at home over several months
• we will take health, employment, police and local authority checks
• we will contact six referees
• you will attend a medical assessment

Your social worker will write a report, which you can read and comment on. You will then attend the Adoption Panel, which makes a recommendation. A final decision is made within fourteen days.

After approval

We will continue to support you, offer further training and help you prepare for a child joining your family.

Apply or ask a question

Complete the online enquiry form or contact Family Connections using the details on this page.