Preparation, Assessment and Approval

Preparation Training

If your application is progressed, you will be invited to attend Preparation Training, which is the start of the assessment process.  

The compulsory four day preparation training course takes place regularly, and is the starting point for your home study (also called a PAR or assessment). The training is a valuable insight into all areas of the adoption, as well as an opportunity for you to meet others who are starting their adoption journey alongside you.

During the assessment period, you will also be invited to attend additional workshops and support groups.

Assessment

The assessment or home study includes statutory checks (such as criminal record bureau checks), probation checks, education checks if you already have children, and checks with other local authorities. We will also arrange for you to have a full medical check.  We also ask for written references from people who know you well, including family members and friends, and will visit some of these people. If you have had significant relationships in the past, we will ask you about these and discuss getting in touch your ex-partners.  

The assessment is detailed, and looks in depth at your life experiences, attitudes and approach to parenting and experience of children.  The assessment will also obviously look at the age, number and gender of children you could adopt.  

It will usually take up to eight months for an assessment to be completed.

Approval to Adopt

A report is prepared based on the assessment which is then reviewed by an independent Adoption Panel who meet you and your social worker and make a recommendation about whether you should be approved to adopt.  The final decision is made by the Agency Decision Maker.

If you are approved to adopt, the next stages will involve matching you with children waiting for adoption.

If you are not considered suitable to adopt, you will be advised of your rights and potential next steps in a formal letter.  This includes the right to make representation to the adoption agency with regard to the decision, or apply to the Secretary of State for an independent review.  

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