How long does adoption take in the UK?

EACH year in the UK, thousands of child adoption placements are made.

But how does the process work, and how long does it typically take? Here's everything you need to know.

How easy is it to adopt a baby in the UK?

Research published by the government in 2013 suggested that up to 650,000 people consider adoption, but many are put off because of myths and misconceptions about the process.

There are around four steps to the process, and the journey can vary for each individual.

You can also sign up to the adoption registers for  and , which will guide you through the process.

Here are the steps to adopting a child, as outlined by the organisation, which are a national information service for people looking to adopt in England.

Pre-stage one – Exploration

Before you apply to adopt, you should ensure that you’ve read up on the process and spoken to experts who have made the journey before.

Stage one – Initial checks and registration

To qualify to adopt a child, you must first sign up with an agency that you feel comfortable with.

Then you will have to pass some background checks and get some references as part of the evaluation process.

Stage two – training and assessment

Next, a social worker will work with you to assess your situation in order to present a report to the Adoption Panel so you can be accepted as a prospective parent.

Stage three – Matching with the right child

Your agency will work with the local authority to find the right child for you.

At this stage the suitability of the situation for the child and you will be discussed, and a matching panel will make the final decision.

Stage four – Moving in

You will be able to have a series of visits with your child and have them over for short stays in order to make the transition as comfortable as possible.

You won’t be on your own in the process as a social worker will be on hand to help you out throughout.

After a while, you can apply to become the child’s legal parent.

How long does it take to adopt a baby in the UK?

Typically it will take less than two months to have initial checks and registration.

Following this, the training and assessment period will take around four months.

If you get the Adoption Panel’s approval you’ll be signed up as an adoptive parent.

Then it will depend on finding the right child for you and there is no timescale on how long this can take. Finding the right family for a child is essential.

You will not be eligible to adopt if you are under the age of 21, have a criminal record for offences against children or for serious sexual offences or if you aren’t a legal resident of the UK, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man.

How much does it cost to adopt a child in the UK?

Many people are often surprised to hear that it does not cost to adopt a child in the UK.

This is the same whether you choose to adopt through an independent or voluntary adoption agency, a local authority, or a regional adoption agency.

However, there might be some other costs involved, like court fees or a charge for a police check.

Be sure to ask the agency for a bit more information on the costs that might crop up, and if they might be able to help with any of them.