Adoption

Information and advice for kinship carers on adoption, how to adopt a child, alternatives to adoption and support available.

This advice applies to: England and Wales


In almost all cases, it is not appropriate for kinship carers to adopt the child they care for. Instead, the family court will usually consider a special guardianship order or child arrangements order to make sure the child has a safe, secure place to live.

You can apply to adopt a child who has lived with you for at least a year. You must also have consent from the child’s parents or get approval from the family court to adopt without their consent.

If you are considering adopting a child placed with you as a local authority foster carer, this must be consistent with their care plan. You should discuss this carefully with the social worker, and never feel under pressure to adopt without considering the consequences of taking on parental responsibility.