Adopting a child is one of the most exciting and rewarding processes that anyone can go through. Knowing that you have helped to improve that child’s life by providing a safe home filled with buckets of unconditional love is a heart-warming feeling that many adoptive parents will feel all too familiar with.
However, there is a lot that goes into the adoption process. You will first need to complete the adoption assessment process to ensure that you are suitable to become an adoptive parent. The assessment will also provide you with the skills you need to be an adoptive parent.
While the assessment process might differ slightly depending on the agency you choose, here’s a rough idea as to what to expect when you begin the adoption process:
Assessment Plan
Once you have notified the agency that you wish to begin the adoption assessment process, you’ll first begin with them a plan detailing the assessment process, meeting and training dates as well as any further information that you’ll require.
Initial Background Checks
The first stage of the adoption process involves basic checks that you are required to complete as part of any adoption assessment.
Checks during this stage will include:
- A full DBS check to make sure you can safely look after a child. This is to ensure that you don’t have any criminal record which might suggest that you are not capable of looking after a child.
- Checks with the local authority social care, child protection and education services to find out where you live or have lived
- A full medical check with your own GP.
Preparation Groups
You’ll have the opportunity to attend a preparation course with other prospective adopters, which will help you explore the benefits and challenges of adoption.
You will also be given information from various professionals and hear from those with personal experience of adoption as adopters, adopted adults or birth family members.
The “Home Study”
The main part of the assessment is a series of home visits from your social worker to your home. This is an opportunity for your social worker to get to know you and your family and spend time helping you think about what strengths you could bring to adoptive parenting.
Richards & Lewis: Professional Solicitors Near Me
Are you looking for an experienced solicitors firm to assist you in any adoption legal issues you may be experiencing?
At Richards and Lewis, we can offer professional legal advice throughout Blaenau Gwent for a wide variety of legal issues including family law, wills and probate, residential conveyancing issues, divorce and powers of attorney.
If you are interested in the wide range of services we offer, get in touch with a member of our team here today.
