Frequently asked questions

There is a range of support services available to adoptive parents, including therapeutic, educational, and sometimes financial support to help you when looking after your child. The best place to start is to speak to your adoption agency and find out about any services they offer such as training or peer support groups. Your adoption agency will have access to their own adoption support and they will be able to provide more information on the specific support available to you and your family. You can also receive additional educational support, such as priority access to schools and pupil premium funding for adopted children so it’s a good idea to speak to your child’s school.

Adoption support services are available through the adoption agency that you completed your application with, or from your local adoption agency where you live. Contact them for assistance with any challenges or questions you may have regarding your adopted child. Most agencies offer lifelong adoption support so you’re able to contact them for help years after the adoption has gone through. There is also the Adoption Support Fund available to provide therapeutic support, your adoption agency will be able to advise on how you can access the fund.

Once the adoption has been approved by the court, your child's legal status is changed. Your adoption agency can provide information on any legal considerations or documentation you may need to update as your child grows so it’s often helpful to keep in touch with them. 

In England, adopted individuals have the legal right to access their birth records when they turn 18. The adoption agency responsible for their adoption can provide information on the process and offer support as your child navigates this journey.

Reach out to your adoption agency for support and guidance if your child is experiencing challenges. They can offer post adoption support services and connect you with professionals who specialise in adoption-related issues. They can also provide you with resources that may be useful and there is a wealth of information online and social media from other adopters that may be helpful. You can also reach out to specialised organisations and charities for support for your child,.

The information provided to your child about their birth family will depend on the circumstances of their adoption and the agreed-upon level of openness and contact.  Your adoption agency will guide you on how to handle these discussions and detail what information has been made available to your child.