About the children

Children who need adoption can’t go back to live with their first parents for many reasons.

• They've likely had a difficult start in life and may have been exposed to parental alcohol, substance misuse and all the chaos that is associated with this lifestyle
• They've likely experienced trauma, loss and may have been neglected or abused 
• They may feel rejected, angry and be lacking confidence or self-esteem.

The children are of primary school age or younger and some will need extra support to help them manage their feelings, behaviour and learning. There are single children and groups of brothers and sisters.  

Many of the children may have experienced a level of developmental delay due to their exposure to illicit substances in utero. Children can experience withdrawal symptoms after birth, known as Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). 

Many children have been exposed to alcohol while in utero, which could have an effect on their physical and cognitive development known as Foetal Alcohol Syndrome (Disorder) (FAS or FASD). More information on FASD can be found on the adoption uk website.

What the children need

The children need

• stability and security for the rest of their childhood
• a family who they can turn to in their adult lives
• a family who appreciate that their first parents/family and foster family may still be important to them and that some contact, direct or indirect, may be needed.