There are many myths about who can and who cannot adopt, including people living with a disability or a mental health condition. We don’t want myths to put anyone off applying to adopt a child, so we’re here to clear things up.
Join us as we explore who can adopt a child, the truth about adopting when you have a disability, and the unique perspective that people living with a long-term health condition can bring to parenting a child who has experienced trauma.
Who can adopt a child?
Some people believe that we’re looking for the ‘perfect’ adoptive parents. But the truth is – no one is perfect, and no two applicants are ever the same.
That’s why at Adopters for Adoption, we assess each application on a case-by-case basis, considering your life experiences, transferable skills, and unique qualities that would make you a great adoptive parent.
However, there are a few initial requirements. To adopt a child, you must:
- Be aged 21 or over
- Live in the British Isles
- Not have any criminal convictions or cautions related to children or sexual offences.
- Have a spare bedroom for your adopted child.
Your relationship status, gender identity, sexuality, ethnicity, culture, and faith don’t matter to us. What we’re looking for are adoptive parents who can provide children with a loving forever home where their needs are always met and they have the chance to enjoy the carefree childhood they deserve.
Adopting when you have a health condition
We welcome applicants from all walks of life, so if you have a physical or mental health condition, this shouldn’t put you off applying.
During stage one of the adoption assessment process, you’ll have a medical to help us gain a complete picture of your health. We’ll work with your GP to understand your health condition and see how it could impact the child you adopt.
We do this to protect your well-being too. Caring for a child can be both mentally and physically demanding, so we need to ensure adoption won’t negatively affect your short-term or long-term health.
Don’t worry – you won’t manage the adoption process alone. You’ll have a dedicated social worker by your side who’ll support you throughout your adoption journey. They’ll offer their advice, guidance, and a listening ear, answering any questions you might have and ensuring you have everything you need as you embark on this new chapter in your life
Why people living with a disability make great parents
When we assess your suitability to adopt a child, we look at the qualities you can bring that will help a child who’s living with trauma to thrive.
Living with a disability can present challenges that those without a physical or mental health condition may never truly understand. It takes a huge amount of resilience, determination, and courage to navigate a world where physical, social, and systemic barriers are part of daily life.
Children waiting for adoption are often living with the trauma caused by their early childhood experiences. Sadly, this means they too face challenges that can impact them both now and in the future.
Your experiences can help children learn how to advocate for themselves, build resilience, and see that, just as your disability doesn’t define you, their past doesn’t define them either.
We’re here to support you
At Adopters for Adoption, we’re here for you from the moment you enquire, and once you’re approved to adopt, we’ll support you through the matching process, your first moments with a child, and beyond.
During stages one and two of the assessment process, you’ll take part in our training programme, which will prepare you with the knowledge and skills to welcome a child. From attachment and trauma to loss, separation, and grief, we’ll help you feel confident parenting an adopted child.
You’ll also benefit from a 12-month subscription to Adoption UK, and adopters from the LGBTQIA+ community will additionally receive free membership to New Family Social.
And for even more support, we organise social activities where you can meet other potential adopters and those who’ve already adopted to share your experiences, lean on each other, and enjoy your adoption journey together.
Want to learn more about adoption?
If you’d like to learn more about adopting a child when you’re living with a disability, call us on 0800 5877 791, or submit an enquiry form and a member of our experienced team will be in touch.
