Adopting a child with additional needs

Adopting a child with additional needs can be an incredibly rewarding journey, bringing profound joy and fulfilment to families who choose this path. Whether the child’s needs are physical, emotional or behavioural, many children can contribute immensely to their adoptive families but unfortunately often wait longer to find their permanent family. 

What are the advantages?

Jaron, a father to two sons, Oliver, aged 10, with Chromosome Deletion Duplication and Autism, and Noah, aged 3.5, with Limb Difference and suspected ADHD, shares his experience, describing the adoption journey as "amazing" and highlighting the unexpected rewards it brings.

"You're giving a child a life they may not have otherwise had,"

Carrie, a mother to Janine, aged 5, who also has Chromosome Deletion Duplication, narrates her journey after being unable to have biological children. Initially exploring fostering, they were guided towards adoption, and upon attending an adoption activity day, the decision to adopt Janine was an immediate and heartfelt "Yes!."

“Janine has not only made me a better person but has also brought our extended family closer together.”

Some useful things you need to know about

Jaron emphasises the importance of entering the adoption process without preconceived expectations and encourages prospective adopters to engage in thorough research. Listening to podcasts, watching YouTube videos, following individuals on social media and reading blogs can provide valuable insights into adopting a child with additional needs.

Joining support groups where families with similar backgrounds connect is also a great way to foster a network beyond the social worker's assistance.

Support and resources play a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of both the child and the adoptive family. Oliver receives play therapy, a service that Jaron wishes they had accessed earlier. Similarly, Carrie reached out to the post-adoption support team for assistance with Janine's emotional regulation challenges, emphasising the availability of help when sought.

The support offered by the Adoption Support Team is comprehensive, encompassing readiness tools, individual child support plans, mentoring, buddies and financial assistance. Adopters are encouraged to ask for help, and these services remain accessible throughout the child's entire childhood.

Are there any challenges?

The adoption process, as highlighted by Carrie, does take some time. Hurdles and challenges are inevitable, requiring trust in the process. Carrie stresses the importance of relationship and parenting training courses and encourages prospective adopters to embrace the journey with an open heart. 

Who can adopt a child with additional needs?

Adoption is not limited to couples or families; individuals willing to commit to providing a child with a home, love, stability, and care are equally valued.  

Prospective adopters do not necessarily need prior childcare experience; an open heart and mind are the primary requisites. Personal experiences or life skills, especially those involving working with children or individuals with additional needs, can be advantageous.

Ultimately, the adoption journey involves embracing the unknown and accepting the uniqueness of each child. Jaron reflects on Oliver's developmental progression, acknowledging its limitations but cherishing the certainty that Oliver will be with them for the long term. The fulfilment and joy derived from this journey, as expressed by adoptive parents, exemplify the transformative impact of adoption, especially when welcoming a child with additional needs into one's heart and home.

Also, the prospect of adopting mixed-needs siblings, or offering a loving home to a second child with additional needs, is actively sought.

Is there any financial support available?

We know many worry about being able to afford to have children, particularly with the current cost of living, or think you need lots of money to be accepted. We can provide advice about financial support available to help you meet a child’s additional needs. Adoption Leave is also available to adoptive parents. Read more about adoption pay and leave.

Ready for the next step? Start your adoption journey today and get in touch

If you have ever considered adoption please don’t delay and contact us today. We have a number of children waiting for their forever home and that could be you.

Call us on 0300 300 8090
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