Your questions
Answers to common questions about adoption and fostering.
Can I adopt or foster...
The assessment process
Becoming an adoptive/foster parent
Information for birth families
Information for adopted people
If you would like information and advice about an adoption or fostering matter which has not been included, please see BAAF first questions, or contact Be My Parent or a BAAF country & regional office in your area.
Can I adopt or foster...
...if my partner and I are not married?
...if I do not have a partner?
...if I already have birth children?
...if I have a criminal record?
...if I have a health condition?
...if I have a disability?
...a baby?
...a child of a different ethnicity to me?
Can I adopt if I have had fertility treatment?
Do I need special skills or qualities to adopt or foster?
What is the difference between adoption and fostering?
Could I try fostering before I choose to adopt?
Can I adopt my step-child?
Can I adopt a member of my family?
Can I adopt from abroad?
The assessment process
How long will it take and what are the costs involved?
What preparation, training and support can I expect?
Why does the agency need to know personal details and make checks?
What happens if I am not approved?
Becoming an adoptive/foster parent
Is adopting or fostering different to parenting a birth child?
Am I entitled to adoption leave and pay from my employer?
What is direct and indirect contact?
What is life story work and why is it important?
What happens when my child reaches 18?
Information for birth families
Who can I talk to if I am considering having my baby adopted?
Where can I get help if my child has been, or is going to be, adopted?
Information for adopted people
How do I find out about tracing birth relatives?
If you feel that adoption or fostering is not right for you at this stage, there are other ways you can help. You might want to consider:
- Finding out about voluntary work and befriending schemes from your local council. Many local authorities have independent visitor schemes for children in care who have little or no contact with their family. For more details, contact your local council.
Last updated: 13 December 07
