Adoption is open to more people than you might think. There are very few things that automatically bar a person from becoming an adopter.

To adopt, you must be:

• Over 21
• legally resident in the UK, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man, and have been so for at least 12 months.

If you or a member or your household have a criminal conviction or caution for offences against children or for serious sexual offences you will not be able to adopt.

Those are the only automatic exclusions from adoption. There are many other factors that will come into consideration, but none of them automatically exclude you.

People who are single, gay, living in rented accommodation and already have children can all adopt. Disabilities and health conditions do not automatically rule you out.

The most important thing is that you are able to be patient, flexible and resilient and can provide a child with love, time and commitment.

Next: The Process

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