Do I need special qualities or skills?

There are no hard and fast rules regarding the skills and qualities you need to adopt or foster a child or group of brothers and sisters.

All sorts of children need all sorts of people. However, agencies will be looking for people who:

• are willing to learn and seek support

• have space in their lives and home
  
• can value the child’s past experiences

• like children and are able to communicate with them and see the world through their eyes

• are patient, sensitive, flexible, adaptable, emotionally resilient, have lots of energy and a sense of humour

• have ‘stickability’ (an ability to remain committed to the child through both good and challenging times)

• ideally have some experience of caring for children

However, do not be daunted by this list. Throughout the assessment process, you will receive support and training to help prepare you for the life-changing moment you welcome an adoptive or permanent foster child into your life. You might want to read more about the adoption and fostering process.

How much do you know about adoption and fostering? Take our quiz.

Last updated: 10 March 10

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