Older children

Some of the children waiting for adoption in Lancashire and Blackpool are age four and over. Some of these children have complex needs such as additional health and development needs.

Often children of primary school age are seen as too old to adopt and can wait longer for adoption than younger children. Yet, this is the time they are developing into amazing individuals with their own unique personalities. They are exploring the world and experiencing new things every day. 

Adoptive parents may prefer to adopt a baby or young child to experience their first steps or first words. Yet, there are lots of other firsts that you can enjoy when adopting an older child.

Imagine... their first visit from the tooth fairy, their first day of school, the parents' race at sports day, or the first time they ride a bike. 

Adopting an older child means that you can help them develop at a time when they're growing up. They will need as much support, love and guidance as a younger child. 

Hear from our adopters

Hear from adopters from across the North West as they share their experience of adopting an older child. 

The benefits of adopting an older child

There are many benefits of adopting an older child:

Older children can communicate their needs to you, and this can help you to build a connection.

You will know more about their history including their development and progress.

Your adoption journey may be quicker than those looking for young children or babies.

We'll support you

While it might not always be easy, there is a range of support available for all adoptive parents, in particular for those who adopt children who typically wait longest.

We offer a range ofadoption support services which starts with preparation to adopt, and includes support groups, training, workshops, family days and more specialised therapy.

If you think you could offer an older child a loving permanent home, then

book a place at an information event

Our team of experienced staff will be on hand to support you from the initial enquiry and right the way through your adoption journey.

Hear more from our wonderful adopters

Rachel and Owen's Story

Rachel and Owen adopted their little boy when he was three and a half years old.

They both wanted to be parents and started to explore their options together. They originally tried IVF, but were also open to other options and soon decided that adoption was the best route for them.

Read more about Rachel and Owen's adoption journey

Get in touch

To be considered as an adopter, people need to be over 21, and living in or close to Lancashire or Blackpool.

There is no such thing as a typical adopter.

We welcome applications from people of any sexuality or gender. You don’t have to be married or have a partner either, we have lots of excellent single adopters.

What matters is that you can open your hearts and open your homes to a child who may have not had the greatest start in life.

The adoption process includes everyone – having children can be for everyone.

If you are considering adoption, please get in touch with us.