Glasgow aims to recruit more adoptive parents

Anyone who has ever considered adopting a child can learn more about what's involved at two drop-in information sessions in the city.

Organised by the council's Families for Children team, the information sessions are being held as part of Adoption Week Scotland, which runs from Nov 21-27.

The first session will take place at Gorbals Leisure Centre, Ballater St, Glasgow on Tuesday, Nov 22 from 12-2pm. This will be followed by a second event at the City Chambers, George Square, Glasgow on Friday, Nov 25th from 12-2pm.

At both events there will be the chance to talk to an adoption worker and have your questions answered.

Staff will also be able to dispel many of the myths and misconceptions that still persist about who can and who can't go forward to adopt a child

These include:

1. I'm too old to adopt: There is no formal upper age limit. You do need to be at least 21 years of age to begin the process. If you want to adopt a child under the age of four you, (or the youngest partner if you're in a partnership), needs to be under 45 at the time of application. To adopt an older child there is no upper age limit but you must be in good health.

2. I don't own my own home so I can't adopt: To adopt, you need to be able to provide a child with a stable, loving and supportive family home. You don't need to own that home.

3. I will have to give up my job: Many adopters continue to work. You will have to take a year's Adoption Leave once a child is placed with you to help you all adjust and bond as a family. After this many adopters work.

4. I'm single/unmarried so I can't adopt: Families for Children has many single adopters, and many more who are in a partnership but not married. Your ability to provide a stable home and care for a child is important, not your relationship status.

5. I can't adopt because I'm gay: Your sexuality is not a barrier to adoption. You will be assessed on your ability to care for a child.

6.I'd have to get rid of my dog if I want to adopt: Pets may actually help a child to settle into a new home more quickly, provided there are no health and safety concerns around those pets. This will be looked at as part of assessment.

7. I have a disability so I can't adopt: Each potential adopter is assessed as an individual. As long as your disability doesn't prove a barrier to caring for a child it shouldn't stand in your way.

8. The process takes ages: Families for Children has worked hard to make sure the assessment process is thorough but not unduly lengthy. To find out more, call on 0345 276 5555 to talk through what's involved.

9. You need to be earning a lot of money to adopt: You don't need to have a high income, but do need to be able to live within your means and be able to afford to bring up a child.

10.After you adopt you will be on your own:Families for Children continues to offer post-adoption support, ensuring that you are not on your own after your adoption is approved and you are matched with a child.

Further info from Families for Children on 0345 276 5555 or http://fosterglasgow.org/