Why do children need new families?
There are many reasons why children have to
be cared for away from their own homes for long or short periods. Some have family crises,
which with help can be resolved, but others have serious and recurrent family problems and
so they need alternative families on a permanent basis through adoption.
What kind of children are awaiting a new home?
Some children are pre-school age but the
majority are older than six, and are from many different backgrounds. Many have brothers
and sisters with whom they should be placed, and some have very special needs due to their
mental or physical disabilities and previous damaging experiences.
How are the children prepared for moving
into their new families?
The way this is done will vary according to
the child’s past, age and abilities. Preparation is done through play, discussion and
a “life story” book. Preparation may also depend on where a child is living, for
example a short-term foster home, a children’s home or a “Home Finding”
unit
There will be a social worker who will help
the child prepare for his/her move and give continuing support. In most cases the social
worker may also be working with the birth parents, but this will very much depend upon
their circumstances. Children often continue to have links with their birth family after
they have been adopted, although for the majority this will be an exchange of photographs
and information, which will be indirectly through the adoption agency, usually once a
year.
Who may adopt?
You have to be over twenty-one. There is a
process of preparation, which looks at your family situation, and at what you have to
offer a child or children. Applications are welcomed from all cultures, races and
religions.
We have no children of our own. Would this prevent us from either ado tin or
fostering?
No, many of the children will fit well into
your family because they need lots of time and care, and would benefit from this
situation.
I am fifty, am
I too
old?
Certainly not. We actively encourage
applications from people in this age range who would be happy to consider children of
either eight years or older.
We have an elderly relative living with us.
Would this prevent us from a lying?
Not necessarily. We would hope that all
family members, including your relative, will be involved in the decision to accept a new
child into your home. However, as with any other family member, their opinion would be
taken into account.
Do we have to be Catholic to apply to your
agency?
No. We work with people from many religious
backgrounds, and also with those who follow no religion.