Thinking of adopting for the second time?

Then we would love to hear from you. Let’s tell you more about how the process goes the second time around….

Many adopters who have experienced the joys of helping a child to settle into their family wish to adopt again. There are many reasons for wanting to welcome another child into the family and adoptive parents will want to consider how this will affect them and their existing children. One thing is for certain though is that you’ll be fast-tracked.  We already know that you have the skills, expertise and support network to care for an adopted child and that you have been through a thorough assessment and preparation process. So if you’d like to apply again, we’ll fast track you and your application should take no longer than 4 months.  Find out more about the  ‘Fast Track’ assessment process.

Here are some things you’ll need to consider before embarking on adoption for the second time…

How long is it since you’ve adopted?

You’ll know that it’s important to allow plenty of time for your existing child to settle and learn to trust you, to be the centre of attention and to feel secure in their new family. With this in mind we would expect at least 2 years to have passed since your last adoption.

How big is the age gap between the children?

This is a really important consideration and we would generally advise that a larger age gap of between 3 and 4 years makes it easier for each child in the family to feel secure reducing the likelihood of conflicts due to children being at similar developmental stages.

My child’s birth family have had another child, will I be able to adopt him/her?

If the plan for this  child is once again for adoption, we would approach you to consider adopting them as it is preferable for the siblings to grow up together. Of course we would carefully consider whether this would be manageable for you and in the best  interests of all of the children involved.  To reduce the delay for the child and ensure continuity in their care, we may consider Early Permanence and of course would ensure that your assessment was fast-tracked.

Are you prepared for your child’s reaction?

Your child may seem settled and ready for a younger sibling but change can be difficult and so our Social Workers will work carefully with you to think about the age and backgrounds of children you may like to consider. They will also be able to advise you on how best to prepare to ensure the most successful transition.

What about my age?

If you adopted in your 40s, you may be worried whether you will still be considered for another child.  Rest assured that we are more interested in your ability to parent a child than how old you are.

What next…

If you’d like to talk to someone about the next steps, simply use the enquiry form below to contact your local Family Adoption Links partner.