-
Does my age matter?
You have to be over 21 years of age to adopt but there is no
upper limit. We aim to place children with families who will be
able to fully support them throughout their childhood and into
early adulthood.
Top^
-
Do you consider single adopters?
Yes, we welcome single adopters who can demonstrate they would
be able to offer a child what the care and support they need.
Top^
-
Do you consider same sex couples?
Yes - We welcome couples and individuals with a strong and
supportive relationship, whatever their sexuality.
Top^
-
Will a criminal record prevent me from
adopting?
We look at all circumstances individually. You are only
automatically barred from adopting if you have a record of offences
against children or significant offences of violence.
Top^
-
Do you help people adopt who live outside of North
Somerset?
We will assess families outside of North Somerset but travelling
time will be a consideration.
Top^
-
Will having health problems or a disability
prevent me from adopting?
Not necessarily - We ask for adopters to undergo full medicals
to ensure they are fit enough to meet the needs of children placed
with them.
Top^
-
Is it a a problem if I already have children?
No. The experience you have gained as a parent to your existing
children is valuable. However, we have to take their needs and
wishes into account. We would only place children younger than your
own and with a reasonable age gap. Research has shown this approach
has the most positive outcomes in adoption. We would want to
contact any children not living with you, including grown up
children, to also understand their views on your plans to
adopt.
Top^
-
Is it ok for me to adopt if I work full-time?
Adoption is a time-consuming process and parenting children
takes time and energy. The children we place for adoption have
experienced loss and changes of carers and therefore need their
parents to be available for them. They would not thrive with
substitute carers, childminders or day nurseries. However, most
people are entitled to six months adoption leave and employers are
often sympathetic to requests for part-time hours. However, for
some children, your returning to work after adoption leave would
not be appropriate but this will be discussed with you.
Top^