For me, this was the burning question we wanted answered, so I thought I’d address it early on. Through my personal journey, experience and what I have learned, I have created this Adoption step by step guide to the timeline to simplify best I can. Whether you’re just beginning to think about adoption or are already considering starting the process, this guide will walk you through every step, outline the typical timelines, and help set realistic expectations.
So how long does it take? The adoption process in the UK typically takes between 6 months and 2 years, depending on individual circumstances. Adopting a child is one of the most life-changing and emotionally rewarding decisions a person or couple can make. However, the process can seem complex, lengthy, and at times overwhelming, especially if you’re navigating it for the first time. In the UK, adoption is a structured legal process with several stages, each designed to ensure that children are placed in safe, stable, and loving homes.
Please note: This post is based on our adoption journey in England. While there are shared principles across the UK, adoption procedures and timelines can vary significantly between England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland due to different legal frameworks and agency structures.
What is Adoption in the UK?
In the UK, adoption is a legal process in which all parental responsibility is transferred from the child’s birth parents (or the local authority if the child is in care) to the adoptive parent(s). Once the adoption is complete, the child legally becomes a full member of the adoptive family, just as if they had been born into it.
Adoption is permanent and differs from fostering, which is usually a temporary arrangement. The UK adoption process is regulated and overseen by adoption agencies, either local authorities or voluntary adoption agencies.
Who Can Adopt in the UK?
Contrary to many misconceptions, the UK adoption system is inclusive. You can apply to adopt if you are:
• Over 21 years old
• Single, married, in a civil partnership, or living with a partner
• Of any sexual orientation
• Employed or unemployed
• A homeowner or renting
• Already a parent or have no parenting experience
Applicants must be physically and emotionally capable of caring for a child and willing to undergo rigorous assessment. Your background, lifestyle, and circumstances will be carefully evaluated to ensure the best outcome for the child.
The Adoption Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Next I’ll break down the entire adoption journey, including timelines and expectations at each stage (This is different for everyone and it’s just given as a rough guideline)
Step 1: Initial Enquiry (0-2 Weeks)
What happens:
• You contact a local authority or voluntary adoption agency expressing your interest in adoption.
• You’ll receive an information pack and possibly attend an introductory information session (in person or online).
Expectations:
• This stage is informal. You’re gathering information, and the agency is getting an early sense of your motivation and readiness.
Tip: We went for our Local Authority, and didn’t look at any other options as we were content this was the right one, however you could contact several agencies to see which one feels right for you. You can only proceed with one at a time, but you’re free to explore your options early on.
Step 2: Registration of Interest (Week 2–4)
What happens:
• If you’re still interested after the initial discussion, you’ll complete a Registration of Interest (ROI) form.
• The agency will have 5 working days to decide whether to accept your application.
Expectations:
• Acceptance into Stage One means the agency believes you are a potentially suitable adopter.
• They may request references and begin background checks (e.g., DBS, medical reports).
Step 3: Stage One – Initial Checks and Preparation (2 Months)
What happens:
• This is the first official stage of the process.
• You’ll undergo checks: DBS (criminal background), medical assessment by your GP, personal and employment references, and local authority checks.
• You will attend adoption preparation training sessions.
• You will complete a workbook designed for your agency to get to know you. Your assigned social worker will use this to structure your assessment visits in stage 2.
Expectations:
• This stage focuses on information gathering and self-reflection.
• You’ll explore topics such as attachment, trauma, loss, child development, and how adoption might impact your life.
Timeline: Up to 2 months. (This can be extended if needed).
Tip: Be honest and open. If you’ve had past difficulties (e.g., mental health issues, financial struggles), these won’t automatically exclude you but must be discussed. We both had struggles with anxiety in the past and previous health issues. We still made it through!
Step 4: Stage Two – Assessment (4 Months)
What happens:
• A more intensive assessment conducted by your assigned social worker.
• Several home visits and in-depth interviews with you (and your partner, if applicable). We had two separate interviews then the rest were together.
• A Prospective Adopter’s Report (PAR) will be prepared, summarising your suitability to adopt.
• We attended our 3 day prep course at this stage
Expectations:
• You’ll delve deeper into your motivation, your upbringing, relationships, values, parenting style, and capacity to meet a child’s needs.
• The social worker may ask personal questions- this is normal and part of ensuring a good match for a child.
• The three day prep course was emotionally heavy but extremely valuable!
Timeline: Up to 4 months. (This can be extended if needed).
Tip: We were encouraged to use this time to educate ourselves further about adoption. Read books, join forums, and consider speaking with experienced adopters. We also gained as much childcare experience as we could.
Step 5: Adoption Panel and Approval (1–2 Months)
What happens:
• Your social worker presents your Prospective Adopter’s Report (PAR) to an adoption panel- a group of professionals and independent members.
• You will likely be invited to attend the panel (in person or virtually).
• The panel makes a recommendation to the agency’s decision-maker, who gives the final approval.
Expectations:
• This can be nerve-wracking, but if you’ve come this far, your social worker believes you’re ready.
• Most applicants are approved at this stage unless serious concerns emerge.
Timeline: Panel recommendation followed by a decision within 7 working days.
Step 6: Family Finding and Matching (2–12 Months or More)
What happens:
• Once approved, you can begin the matching process- finding a child (or children) whose needs match your strengths.
• You’ll review child profiles and may attend events like activity days.
• Once a match is found, you’ll have a matching panel similar to the approval panel.
Expectations:
• This stage can vary dramatically in length. Finding the right match is crucial and not rushed.
• Children in care waiting for adoption may have complex backgrounds, including neglect, abuse, or prenatal exposure to drugs/alcohol.
Step 7: Introductions, Transitions and Placement (3–6 Weeks)
What happens:
• Once a match is approved, you’ll begin introductions- a gradual process of meeting and bonding with the child.
• Transitions typically last 1–2 weeks and increase in duration.
• The child then moves in with you under a Placement Order.
Expectations:
• This can be an emotional and intense time for everyone involved.
• You’ll work closely with the child’s current carers, social workers, and health professionals during the transition.
Timeline: Typically 3–6 weeks from matching approval to full placement.
Step 8: Post-Placement and Legal Adoption (3–6 Months)
What happens:
• After placement, the child lives with you for a period (minimum 10 weeks) before you can apply for an Adoption Order through the court. We put ours in 10 weeks on the dot!
• Your social worker will visit regularly to monitor progress.
• Once the court grants the Adoption Order, you become the child’s legal parent.
Expectations:
• This is often a fragile time. Support from social workers and post-adoption services is vital.
• The Adoption Celebration Hearing is a joyful event, often held in court, to mark the legal finalisation. This is optional. Ours was magical, another moment to celebrate willow and our family.
Post-Adoption Support
Support doesn’t end after the adoption order. In fact, it’s often even more important afterwards.
Types of support available:
• Therapeutic services
• Parenting workshops and support groups
• Education support (Pupil Premium Plus, priority school admissions)
• Adoption Support Fund (ASF) for therapy
• Life story work and help with identity issues
Don’t hesitate to ask for help- parenting an adopted child comes with unique challenges.
Total Time Frame: From Start to Finish
| Stage | Typical Duration |
| Initial Enquiry & ROI | 2-4 Weeks |
| Stage 1 | 2 Months |
| Stage 2 | 4 Months |
| Approval Decision | 1 Month |
| Family Finding and Matching | 2-12+ Months |
| Introductions, Transitions and Placement | 1 Months |
| Post Placement to Adoption Order | 3-6 Months |
| Total | 12-24 Months on Average |
Final Thoughts: Is Adoption Right for You?
Adoption is a powerful way to build a family and provide a child with a safe, loving home. The process may feel rigorous at times, but each step is designed with the child’s best interest at heart. With patience, resilience, and a willingness to learn, you can navigate the journey successfully.
Remember: You’re not alone. From social workers and agencies to peer networks and charities like Adoption UK, Coram, and First4Adoption, there’s a wealth of support available. Also, If you would like to read our full adoption journey click here.
Whether you’re just starting to explore adoption or are about to submit your registration of interest, trust the process and yourself.
Useful Resources
• Adoption UK
• Coram Adoption
• First4Adoption
• GOV.UK – Adopting a child
Adoption isn’t just a legal process- it’s a journey of love, resilience, and hope. It’s about opening your heart and your home to a child who needs stability, security, and belonging. Therefore while the steps involved can seem long and sometimes daunting, each stage is carefully designed to ensure that every child finds the right family, and that every adopter feels prepared, supported, and confident in their role.
If you’re reading this and thinking, “Could this be for me?” know that you don’t have to be perfect. You just need to be patient, compassionate, and committed to making a difference in a child’s life. Adoption may not always be easy, but in my experience it is worth it.
If you enjoyed this post, you might also like to read some of our recent stories and guides:
- Telling Family & Friends We’re Adopting – Their Reactions, Support and Love
- The Grief Before The Hope: Our Infertility Journey Through Diagnoses, Loss and Love
- Fatherhood Through Adoption: A Dad’s Perspective
- How Much Does Adoption Cost in the UK? The Truth From My Personal Experience
- Top 10 Adoption Books for Prospective Adopters and Adoptive Parents
If you’re navigating adoption or infertility, I’ve shared the most genuinely helpful resources, reads, and self-care items on this page. Everything on there has made a difference for us and I hope it can for you too.
In the end, adoption is not just about finding a child, it’s about finding each other. One step at a time.
