Steps to adoption through Childlink
Deciding to enquire about adoption
We know from experience that the adoption process is demanding and requires full commitment from applicants. Therefore, we expect people to have finished any fertility treatment before embarking on adoption.
Contacting the agency
Provided that you live in or near Greater London, we will send you an adoption information pack. We will also offer you the opportunity to talk on the phone to an adoption worker to answer any questions you may have at this stage.
Sending us a preliminary enquiry
The information you provide on this short form will help us consider whether Childlink is the right agency to take up your interest and invite you to a meeting at our office.
Coming to a preliminary interview
This is an informal opportunity, without obligation, for you and one of our adoption workers to exchange information, ask and answer specific questions, and to discuss your interest in more detail.
Attending our preparation groups
Adoption can be very rewarding. It can also be very hard work. At Childlink we offer adopters full preparation for what lies ahead, and lots of support.
We prepare adopters in groups where they can:
- learn more about what is involved in adoption
- look at useful books and take home other information to read
- meet and listen to experienced adopters.
Being assessed by your Childlink adoption worker
This involves regular meetings to explore your potential as an adoptive parent and what you will be able to offer to an adopted child. We will also take up the references and checks required by Regulations, which include medical examinations.
Writing your prospective adopter report
You and your worker will prepare a report about your life experiences, your skills and supports, and a description of the types of children that you will best be able to parent. You will see a draft of the report, and will be able to suggest changes and make comments.
Being approved as suitable to adopt
Our adoption panel will consider your report and make a recommendation to the agency. You will be invited to attend the meeting with your Childlink worker.
The agency decision maker will make the actual decision about whether you are suitable to adopt and will write to tell you the outcome.
Being matched with a child or sibling group
The child (or siblings) you adopt will be looked after by a local authority. We will work with you to link you with a child, support you during interviews with the child's social worker and attend the local authority adoption panel that considers the match and the adoption support plan.
To best meet a child's needs, it is usual to find an adoptive family with a similar:
- ethnic heritage
- religion
- language
Settling the child or siblings into your family
We will be there to provide help and support during your introductions to the child (or siblings) and after the child has moved in with you. The local authority will also remain involved until you have adopted the child.
Applying for an adoption order
A court called an Adoption Centre will make the order which means that your child is a full member of your family in law. We will help to write the report for the court and attend the adoption hearing with you.