Adoption
We are always looking to recruit adopters who will value
and promote a child's identity and history and who will be positive
about openness in adoption.
Who can adopt?
We welcome applications from:
- People from 21 years upward. There is no upper age limit.
- Single people
- Married and civil registered couples
- Same sex couples
- Unmarried and non-civil registered couples who can adopt
jointly.
- Birth parent's partners - married or civil registered.
These can adopt without the birth parent having to
adopt.
- Waged or unwaged
- Either home owners or people living in rented accommodation.
The only requirement is that you have a separate room for a child
to have their own room.
Children waiting to be placed
We particularly welcome interest from people who can offer a
home to:
- Children 4 years and older.
- Brothers and sisters.
- Children with uncertain developmental futures.
- Children of black or mixed race.
People who have already parented and have older children are
also particularly encouraged to apply.
Adopting from overseas
We can also help if you wish to adopt from overseas.
Such assessments are carried out by a voluntary adoption agency.
The costs, are around £4,000 which is met by the adopters.
Anyone contacting us will be able to talk to a social worker
experienced in adopption practice. An information pack is available
that we send to anyone who wants to know more.
Conditions
- Single adopters, or one of a couple must be living in the
British Isles or the adopters must be habitually resident for one
year in the British Isles.
- We offer a service to all Rochdale borough residents
but also welcome your application if you live outside the
borough and would like to adopt older children, sibling groups
or children with special needs.
- All applicants undergo statutory checks carried out through the
police (Criminal Records Bureau Checks), Services to Children and
Young People, health, and education. There are certain offences
which automatically bar people from being considered as adopters.
These are offences against children and certain other offences. If
you have previous convictions you can discuss these with an
adoption worker at an early stage and they will advise you.
- You will need at least three personal references from
friends or employers.
- It is not good to begin the process of becoming an
adopter if you have had a severe life trauma like the death of a
close relative, a serious illness, or you are undergoing
treatment for a mental health issue. Wait for 12
months before starting your assessment. Being assessed, in
itself, asks difficult questions and having children placed can be
challenging.
- You will need a medical examination carried out by your own
GP.
- We view prospective adopters as very important so great
care is taken in training, assessment and support of all
applicants. Preparation for adoption groups is held before
assessment. These last 3½ days.
Rochdale also accepts applications from people wishing to adopt
from overseas. Such assessments are carried out by a voluntary
adoption agency and the costs, are around £4,000 this is met by the
adopters.
Anyone contacting the department will be able to talk to a
social worker experienced in Adoption practice. An information pack
is available and will be sent to anyone who wants to know more.