Discover the joy of adopting a child with additional needs

Image of a parent and a child sitting on a park bench.

Adopting a child with additional needs is a journey filled with love, growth, and profound joy. Whether the child’s needs are physical, emotional, or related to their health, they bring unique perspectives and joy. While many may wait longer for a permanent family, families who open their hearts to them often find their lives deeply enriched.

Adoptive parents often describe the experience as life changing and deeply fulfilling. Jaron, a father to two sons, Oliver aged 10, who has Chromosome Deletion Duplication and Autism, and Noah aged 3, who has Limb Difference and suspected ADHD, shares how adoption has transformed his life. He describes the journey as amazing and speaks with pride about the joy his children bring.

“You’re giving a child a life they may not have otherwise had.”

Carrie, mother to Janine aged 5, who also has Chromosome Deletion Duplication, shares her heartfelt story. After being unable to have biological children, she initially explored fostering. They were guided toward adoption, and when they attended an adoption activity day, they met Janine. The decision to adopt her was immediate and full of love.

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

What to know before you begin

Be open and informed

Jaron emphasises the importance of entering the adoption process without preconceived expectations. He encourages prospective adopters to do their research and learn from others.

“I found listening to podcasts, watching YouTube videos, following families on social media and reading blogs to be incredibly helpful in understanding what to expect.”

He also highlights the value of joining support groups. These communities offer connection and encouragement from families with similar experiences, creating a network of support that extends beyond the role of your social worker.

Support helps families thrive

Support and resources play a crucial role in ensuring the wellbeing of both children and their adoptive family. Jaron shared:

“Oliver receives play therapy, which has been a valuable part of his development. I wish we had accessed it earlier.”

Carrie also reached out for help when Janine needed support with emotional regulation. She found the post adoption support team to be responsive and compassionate, offering practical tools and reassurance when she needed it most.

What support is available for families?

Support is available throughout your child’s life and we encourage you to ask for help, whenever you need it. We offer a range of services to help families, including:

readiness tools and training to prepare you for adoption
personalised support plans tailored to your child’s needs
mentoring and buddy systems to connect you with experienced adopters
in some cases, financial assistance might be available to help meet your child’s needs. This is tailored to your children’s needs. You may also be eligible for adoption leave and pay, giving you time to bond and settle as a family
access to our Adopters Hub, a centralised place to find support, social events, training and much more.

Who can adopt a child?

Adoption isn’t defined by your relationship status, background, sexuality or faith. What truly matters is whether you have the time, love, resilience and space in your life to offer a child a safe, nurturing environment where they can grow and thrive.

If you’re over 21 and have a stable, secure home, you may already meet the essential criteria to adopt. Whether you’re working, self employed, or receiving benefits, adoption could be a real and meaningful path to parenthood for you.

Jaron reflects on Oliver’s journey with deep appreciation. While Oliver’s development may be different, Jaron finds comfort and joy in knowing that Oliver is part of their forever family:

“His development may be different, but we know he’ll be with us for the long term, and that’s what matters.”

Can you adopt more than one child?

Yes. There is a growing need for families who are open to adopting siblings, with different needs, or welcoming a second child to your family with additional needs. Children often thrive when together or with families who understand and celebrate their unique strengths.