Would you like to know how to adopt or foster a child? There are thousands of children who need loving homes, through no fault of their own. Not everyone wishes to adopt. But if you do (whether you want more children, your children have left home or you have infertility issues), you will be met with open arms, as long as you pass the usual tests (no history of abuse or crime etc), and the ability to look after a child.
Despite what you may read, most adoption agencies are very happy to consider people who are single, in partnerships (rather than married), older, overweight or gay. The government website has info on how to proceed.
- There are many adoption agencies nationwide, some are run independently to Ofsted laws. St Francis Children’s Society is a Catholic agency that welcomes adopters for all children – regardless of age, race, cultural background, religion, marital status or sexual orientation. They place children through the Adoption Connections service, and operate within 50 miles of their Milton Keynes office. They also offer advice and support for people whose lives have been affected by adoption.
- Childline has a good information page, if you are pregnant and considering having your child adopted, for whatever reason. Your baby must be at least 6 weeks before you make your final decision, and the decision cannot be taken back. But there is lots of support available, and lots of families waiting to adopt new babies.
- The Story of My Open Adoption is a story for children age 3 to 5, who have been adopted. Learn of Sammy the squirrel who was adopted at birth, as Mum and Dad Rabbit bring him to meet his first family! The book is designed to help children talk openly about their feelings. Using their own special tools, they get to work: building memories to cherish, a home to keep them safe, and love to keep them warm.
