Thinking about adoption The adoption approval process From choosing an agency to your child coming home, the same process applies to all nations of the UK, although there may be slight variations between the nations timing and terminology. Download the factsheet Introductions What’s involved when you and your child are first introduced to each other and the process of getting to know each other before your child moves in with you. Download the factsheet Matching Matching can be unpredictable and frustrating as well as an exciting part of the adoption process. It may feel as though a lot of time is spent waiting for information and responses and there may be some disappointments when potential matches don’t work out. Download the factsheet Adoption leave and pay All employed adopters are entitled to adoption leave. Many will be entitled to adoption pay. There’s no qualifying period of employment for adoption leave, but your entitlement to adoption pay depends on your length of employment and earnings. Download the factsheet Adopting as a single parent Many children are adopted by single people every year. There are some extra things to think about, to help you prepare. Download the factsheet Becoming a concurrent carer A concurrent care plan is made when a child under two years old is placed in foster care and it’s uncertain whether they’ll return to live with their birth family or be adopted. This is sometimes referred to as early permanence. Download factsheet Manage Cookie Preferences