Who Can Adopt?
Adopters come from all walks of life. Single, married, LGBTQIA+, all religions and ethnicities, with or without children — if you can provide a safe, loving home, you can be considered. We focus on your ability to care for and nurture a child, not your marital status, wealth, or background.
LGBTQIA+
We welcome adoption enquiries from the LGBTQIA+ community, whether you are in a same sex relationship or a single adopter. Scottish Adoption and Fostering prides itself on being the leading agency in Scotland for LGBTQIA+ adopters. In 2023, 1 in 2 of our adoptions were to same sex couples.
We are members of New Family Social and for our LGBTQIA+ families, we run a specific adoption support group.
You can read an adoption story from one of our same-sex couples here.
Ethnic Minority Backgrounds
There is still a disproportionate number of children from minority ethnic backgrounds waiting for adoptive families, and sadly, they often wait the longest. Whenever possible, we aim to match children with adopters who share their ethnicity and cultural heritage.
If you are from an ethnic minority background, your experience and perspective are incredibly important, and we would be delighted to speak with you. At Scottish Adoption and Fostering, we actively welcome applications from adopters of all racial and cultural backgrounds.
Single Adopters
Applications from single adopters of all backgrounds are very much welcomed at Scottish Adoption and Fostering.
We will work with you to ensure that you have a good support network around you as you embark on your journey to adopt and beyond.
You can read an adoption story from one of our single adopters here.
Age and Health
The minimum age to adopt is 21, and there is no upper age limit. Adoption is a lifelong commitment, and you will need to demonstrate that you have the energy, and emotional and physical well-being, to care for a child through to adulthood. Most of our adopters are in their 30s or 40s.
Having a long-term medical condition does not automatically prevent you from adopting. Our team can provide guidance and discuss your situation on a case-by-case basis.
Make an Enquiry or Receive a Callback
Start the conversation today — it might be the first step toward your forever family.
