Significant changes to the law within the last few years now mean that in England and Wales, gay couples have the same adoption rights as married couples. Lesbian and gay couples have been adopting for decades but until 2005 only one person could be recognised by law as the parent. This is still the case in both Scotland and Northern Ireland but a new Scottish act, coming into effect this September, will see homosexual couples able to jointly adopt for the first time and recognition of civil partnerships in the adoption process. Same sex couples from Northern Ireland are allowed to adopt in England or Wales but permanent residence in either country is required.

Adoption agencies should welcome applications from any gay and lesbian couples or single person and regard sexuality as irrelevant in relation to someones potential as an adopter. In fact, the experience of facing discrimination, self-discovery or confronting inner turmoil can often be important skills to pass on to a vulnerable child. With a close-knit, friendly community and an open minded ethos, there are many gay people who would make great adopters.

There have been several pieces of research done in the last decade which has dispelled some of the myths surrounding children growing up in a non-nuclear family.

Such notions of homosexuality inhibiting ones ability to parent or increasing risk of sexual abuse and neglect have been dismissed as unfounded in a wide range of studies. In addition, the 2007 Equalities Act made it illegal for adoption agencies to refuse services on grounds of sexuality.

There are many different reasons people choose to adopt but whatever the reason, most adoptive parents say the rewards are plentiful and the experience life changing. Contrary to what some may think, there are no blanket bans, except upon people guilty of certain offences (these are mainly offences against children). Anyone over the age of 21 can apply to adopt whether you are married or single, gay or straight, rich or poor. And there is no upper age limit, although as a rule of thumb many agencies prefer there not be an age gap of more than 45 years between parent and child.

It is love which holds a family together and not fitting into a mould created in a bygone era. There are currently around 4000 children waiting for adoption every year. Numerous successful gay adoptions have paved the way and many more couples are starting the process of adoption for themselves. BAAF urges adopters from all walks of life to come forward and provide these children with the love they so desperately need.



If you want to know more about adoption or National Adoption Week in November, please visit the website www.nationaladoptionweek.org.uk

Contact a recognised adoption agency, for more information and to begin the adoption process.
To find one in your area, go to www.baaf.org.uk