The Difference between Fostering and Adoption in the UK
How is fostering different from adoption? Are there similarities between the two? Learn all the finer details about the small and big differences between fostering and adoption.
Many people often confuse fostering and adoption, using these key terms interchangeably. No one will blame you for confusing fostering and adoption. However, if you want to commit to either, you need to understand the difference so that you know what exactly you are getting yourself into.
Primary difference: temporary vs. permanency
When you apply to be a foster carer, you become a temporary carer to the child. Usually, there is a prevailing circumstance that cannot allow the child to live with his/her original family. However, adoption is more permanent as you become the legal parent of the child.
However, you should be aware of the fact that we have several types of fostering that dictate the length of stay with a foster child.
Key factors that differentiate fostering from adoption
Apart from permanency, fostering and adoption also differ significantly in various aspects. We will review all these aspects to give you a better understanding that will guide your ultimate decision to either foster or adopt.
Fostering requirements
For you to be considered to become a fostering parent in the UK, you must meet these minimum requirements:
- You must be 21 years or above
- You must have an extra bedroom that the foster child can call his/hers
- You must be legally working in the UK
- You must be in good health
- A social worker must approve your application after assessing your suitability
- You must attend relevant training courses offered by the local authority or our fostering agency.
Adoption requirements
For your adoption application to be approved, you must meet these requirements:
- You must be at least 21 years
- You must be a citizen of the UK or have lived as a resident for at least one year
- If you are applying with a partner, one of you must have a permanent home in the UK, Isle of Man, or the Channel Islands
- You must undergo assessments
The assessment that you will do when seeking adoption is extensive. There are two stages, which involve understanding adoption and getting prepared for it.
Demand
Looking at the demand, it is higher for fostering than adoption in the UK. Statistics show that about 6,800 children require foster homes in the UK. About 6,000 children need adoption in the UK. These stats show that your involvement as a foster parent could help reduce the demand and make more children happier.
Commitment
How much are you willing to spend with the child? This is the key difference when it comes to committing to either fostering or adoption. When adopting a child, they will become a permanent part of your family.
However, with fostering the length varies, especially if they are on short-term fostering.
Waiting time
To adoption or foster takes a similar time to finish the process of application and have a child in your home.
Cost
Adoption can be costly, unlike fostering which is less expensive to apply and finish the process. There is also a fostering allowance that you may receive weekly depending on the type of fostering you have opted for. Some adoptions have adoption allowances paid.
Is long-term fostering considered adoption?
No, long-term fostering is not the same as adoption. It is possible to apply and become a long-term foster parent. This can keep you with a foster child in your home for many years. However, it doesn’t have the same legal obligations as it would have if you were an adoptive parent.
Can a foster parent adopt a child?
Yes, it is a common ask for many foster parents. Luckily, we’re glad to say that you can become an adoptive parent by fostering a child.
We have outlined this process in a simple way. But one thing that you have to know is that the expectations will vary significantly. Your role as an adoptive parent will become permanent if you go this route. Again, it is important to emphasise that we don’t have a guarantee that you can become an adoptive parent from being a foster parent. The prevailing circumstances will determine your application.
Deciding whether to become a foster or an adoptive parent
Finally, you’ll have to make up your mind about whether you will become a foster or adoptive parent. It is a big decision that you need to think through with all the factors we’ve listed helping you to make up your mind.
Regardless of the decision you arrive at, just remember that fostering or adoption is a kind act of humanity that we’re all obliged to follow to make the world a better place for the children who don’t have places to call home.
